We’re coming up on the mark for a full year of lockdowns. It’s been a long time since we’ve been able to gather together safely, and we know that a lot of people are experiencing major disaster fatigue.
That’s why so many people see the new COVID-19 vaccines as a big shot of hope. These vaccines look like our best chance for returning to normal as quickly as possible. But if you’re scared of needles, this boost in the right direction is probably accompanied by some serious trepidation.
We understand. In fact, Blessing Okoli, one of the staff members from our sister campus, West Valley Counseling Center, recently opened up about her fears about getting this or any other shot. She describes herself as “deathly afraid of needles.” If that sounds like you, she has some tips to help you get the vaccine.
Blessing recently got the vaccine herself. Yes, she’s still scared of needles, but these tips helped her overcome that fear to get vaccinated.
Change your thinking
Blessing worked with Sharon Burnett, the Founder and Executive Director of WVCC and her therapy supervisor, to shift the way she perceives the vaccination. Instead of approaching it as a major ordeal, she worked to think, “It’s just a shot.”
The more you work yourself up about your appointment, the more likely you are to head into it with some serious stress. If you find yourself worrying about getting vaccinated, try to remind yourself that it’s a super-quick thing that will be over in seconds.
Get the support you need
If being scared of needles has you feeling like you’re heading into battle as you get your vaccine, arm yourself appropriately.
For Blessing, that meant repeating a mantra and bringing someone along to hold her hand during the process. Think about what makes you feel safe and supported. Bring a buddy or wear your comfiest outfit. Try some breathing exercises beforehand to see if any make you feel calmer.
The person administering your vaccine can also help to provide support. Tell them that you’re scared of needles and they can walk through the process, helping by telling you when to look away. You aren’t the first person to be nervous about the vaccine, and they’re pros at coaching people through.
Distract yourself
Because the vaccine is quick, you really just need to distract yourself for a few minutes. Bring your headphones to play your absolute favorite song. And, again, ask the person giving you the vaccine to tell you when to look away so you won’t focus on the needle.
Try to think about something else in that moment when you’re getting your shot. A good idea? Think about what you’re going to do right after.
Plan your reward
If you’re scared of needles, getting the vaccination is a big step. It shows that you’re willing to sacrifice your own comfort to keep other people safe. You deserve some major kudos for that!
Blessing opted to treat herself with Ben & Jerrys afterward. What sounds really great to you? You deserve to do something special after facing your fear.
Being scared of needles doesn’t have to keep you from getting the vaccine. Use these tips to start conquering your fear. And if you want more help, know that our team is here. Our therapists can help you develop stress management techniques and other tools to help you get through getting your vaccination. Contact us today!
