Tips for tackling needle phobia ahead of coronavirus jab
A clinical psychologist has offered some tips for dealing with needle phobia as the coronavirus vaccine continues to be rolled out.
Dr Sophie Gwinnett, owner of Brightside Psychology in Brewood, has suggested tools for before, during and after the vaccine to help those who have phobias of needles.
She said: "Statistics will tell us that as many as one in 10 people have a needle phobia, the concern is that it might put people off having the vaccine.
"One of the biggest factors we see is with avoidance but it can be managed quite effectively with self help strategies.
"In terms of what you can do before you're looking at things to active the parasympathetic nervous system, this could be through medication, social connection, gentle exercise, but also just slowing the breathing down and breathing more deeply.
"When you go for the vaccine, tell the clinician that you are afraid as it's such a common fear it's likely that day they will have seen lots of people who are afraid. Let them know what helps.
"The other thing that can help is distraction techniques, counting back from 100 in sevens or thinking of a country that begins with each letter of the alphabet.
"Have something planned after the vaccine that is pleasant, a slice of your favourite cake or a Zoom call with family, it's something to look forward to but it'll also remind you the vaccine is just one moment in time.
"If you have a history of more extreme reactions such as vomiting or fainting, seek help from a practitioner as there are techniques to help."
