For some, needles are no big deal. For others, each injection is a challenge to overcome – even after many years.
The reasons are usually different, and no matter how necessary it is (we all know it, logically) who can criticize? Is there anything normal about stabbing yourself with a sharp metal object? I think not!
We have a lot of diabetes experience here at mySugr, collectively more than 150 years under our belts. And who better to ask for tips and tricks for overcoming a fear of needles/needle phobia than a bunch of people living well with diabetes?
1. Injectors
Clara: I didn't do my own injections right away. The day where everything changed was when I watched another girl my age in the hospital do her own injection. I thought, "if she can do it, so can I!" But some time later I developed an "injection-crisis" again and used an injection device, which hides the needle completely, to help me get through it.
2. Build Confidence
Marlis: I've been helping children with diabetes for a long time, and fear of needles is very common. It can really help if mom or dad offers to let the child inject them, or even put in a pump infusion set. When those little ones see that you trust them to poke you and that it doesn't hurt when they put the needle in it builds a lot of confidence and trust. Another step is to watch mom or dad do an injection and see that it's fine. I have often let the kids inject me and they were so incredibly proud afterward.
3. Change Therapy
Frank: This isn't an option for everyone, of course. But I really hated doing shots, and this was actually one of the main reasons I switched to insulin pump therapy. This way I was able to trade 8-12 shots per day for 1 infusion set change every 2-3 days.
4. Easy - RUN!
Fredrik: Well, of course, this isn't the solution. But it was definitely worth a try to my 4-year-old brain at diagnosis! My escape from the hospital ended earlier than planned when I was caught in the Stockholm subway.
My tip for everyone who thinks they will accidently hit something while injecting ... let's think about it:
- a needle is from 4mm to 12.7mm long
- how thin is the skin and fat on your abdomen or thighs? Take a look, you'll be amazed.
- then think about how deep inside are your organs floating?
- and now imagine how long the needle would have to be in order to hit something.
Well? Still afraid? The pain during injections is a reaction of your nerves. Nerves are actually pretty stupid, but you're not! Y'know what this is about. It's a tiny little need that keeps you alive, and that's what it boils down to.
5. Distraction
Anne: I was initially very afraid of injections. My family and friends helped by talking to me and getting me very involved in a conversation so I was not focused on the poke!
