You may think that only children are afraid of needles, but you’d be wrong. Many adults possess a fear of needles that can rival that suffered by little ones. Unfortunately, that fear of needles can cause many adults to forego blood work that could ultimately save their lives. If you’ve been avoiding the doctor because of your fear of needles, here are ways that you can overcome your anxiety:
1.Don’t Look
It may sound simplistic, but when the phlebotomist or lab tech approaches you to draw your blood, turn your head. Read a poster on the wall, hum a little tune in your head or do something that distracts you from what’s happening to your arm. Your fear of needles isn’t irrational, but it’s often much worse than the actual prick you’ll feel. When you don’t look, you can’t anticipate, often making the entire experience more bearable.
2.Pop in Your Earbuds
Experts suggest that calming music or books on tape can help you get over some of your anxiety when it comes to having blood drawn. Explain to the receptionist that you are afraid of needles and will be listening to your mobile device as a way to calm yourself and do not want to come across as rude. Start listening to whatever it is that relaxes you in the waiting room and continue listening until your appointment is complete. Listen to a favorite movie, an audio book or a meditation app; whatever it is that relaxes you and takes your mind off of the needle should be what’s playing between your ears.
3.Bring a Friend
Some people find it helpful to bring a friend or loved one to their appointment. Again, explain to the receptionist that you are anxious and ask that your friend be permitted to sit with you during your appointment. Be sure to choose someone to accompany you who won’t tease you. Choose a friend who will hold a steady conversation with you while you are having your blood drawn. You may find that you get so involved in the conversation that you barely notice the prick of the needle.
4.Give Yourself a Treat
If you rarely do anything nice for yourself, decide to do it after your appointment. You may want to book a relaxing massage, an appointment at the salon or even plan on meeting a friend for a hike in the park. Think of your outing as a reward for dealing with a very stressful situation. If you don’t treat yourself often, you may look forward to your reward with such anticipation that your fear of needles takes a backseat.
5.Breathe
“Of course I’m going to breathe,” you may be thinking. Breathing for relaxation is different than breathing to sustain life. When you sit down in the reception area, pay attention to your breathing. Breathe deeply and slowly through your nose, filling your lungs to maximum capacity. Hold your breath for a three-count and then slowly and steadily exhale through your mouth, completely emptying your lungs. Do this several times in a row and do it again when you sit in the chair to have your blood drawn. This type of deep breathing exercise is proven to calm the mind and still jittery nerves.
At the end of the day, you have to tell yourself that your health is more important than your fear of needles. If your fear is so great that even relaxation exercises don’t help, you may need to seek professional advice. By avoiding the doctor because you are afraid of needles, you could very well be putting your life at risk.
– Kelly Rhodes
