Understand what makes fear better or worse

Understand what will happen

Knowing why the medicine needs to be put into the skin, where it will happen, who will be there, and what happens before, during and after can help make it less scary.

• The doctor or a family member can help explain that inserting the needle into the skin may feel like pinching. It might hurt a little, but just for a moment.
• Practicing what will happen before you go to the doctor can help reduce fear.

Helps with pain and fear

Find what works for you

Different people may need different ways of dealing with fear.

• Doctors can help you make a plan that works best for you. They can help you think through the different tips and see which ones you want to use.
• Family and friends can also be part of the plan that works best for you.
• If your fear becomes really bad, you can ask for help from a doctor who is an expert in helping with fear.

Get help

People who have fears that stand in the way of important medical care need support. There are many ways family members, carers or friends can support someone who has a fear of needles.

• They can tell you that there is nothing to be ashamed of.
• They can come with you, support you and help you with the ways you want to deal with your fear.