Health Tips
Use Proven Strategies to Ease Fear of Shots
By
Aug 30, 2010 - 9:05:12 PM

(HealthNewsDigest.com) - Fear of needles needn't stop anyone from getting necessary vaccinations. "It's very common to have a fear of needles," says Dr. Deborah Wiebe, a health psychologist at UT Southwestern Medical Center. "For most people, these are manageable fears that can be addressed through a variety of simple pain-management strategies."

Tips to help ease needle anxiety:

· Some people prefer to know what to expect. Ask the health care professional to explain each step. An accurate, gentle reply such as, "You'll get a shot in the arm. It will sting briefly, then it will be over," can be reassuring.

· Use your imagination. Imagine being on a relaxing beach, feeling the warm sun and hearing the waves come in and go out.

· Breathe. Take slow, deep breaths while concentrating on relaxing your muscles.

"Different strategies work for different people, so if one thing doesn't work, try another," Dr. Wiebe says.

Visit http://www.utsouthwestern.org/neurosciences to learn more about UT Southwestern's clinical services in neurosciences, including psychiatry.

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