20 September 2023

As winter approaches, seasonal vaccinations (like the flu jab) are now being offered to staff and patients who are more vulnerable to infection. 

We've put together a short video (below) to remind everyone that needle phobias are common and nothing to be ashamed of. Simple exercises with practice can help to overcome them quickly too. 

Overcoming your fear of needles

Tell the person who is coordinating your care, or the person who is giving you your injection or blood test, about your worries. They may be able to answer any specific questions you have. They may also be able to help you cope with the procedure, for example, by chatting to distract you. Also, think about whether there has been  anything which has helped you to cope with needles in the past. Can you use something like this to help you again?

Vaccinators are gentle and sensitive to phobia’s; they can support you in any way you need. 

Our staff Keeping Well Service, have a page of tips to support with phobias and self help resources here (opens link)

Talking therapies services are also able to help anyone with any phobias you have here (opens link) 

"If you are a little bit scared of needles, that's okay, some of us are. Just remember that it is momentary, there won't be any pain afterwards" Betul Yaman, School Staff Nurse