Trypanophobia is the medical term for extreme fear of medical procedures involving injections.
More commonly known as needle phobia by the general public.
Needle phobia in the context of vaccination can lead to vaccine avoidance.
Avoidance behaviour can affect medical care if they refuse to get treatment due to their fear of needles.
In some cases the anxiety can become so severe that the individual experiences panic attacks.
Symptoms of trypanophobia:
- Anxiety
- Panic attacks
- Insomnia
- Feeling dizzy
- Racing heart rate
- Excessive sweating
- Avoiding visits to the doctor or necessary medical care
- Fainting (due to a drop in blood pressure when they see the needle or feel the needle)
What causes trypanophobia ?
- Some people have a needle association in which a traumatic event has psychologically triggered the fear response
- Unpleasant childhood memories of injections
- Witnessed observation of someone else’s extreme fear of needles
- A natural instinct to try to avoid puncture of the skin by sharp objects
- Learned behaviour from parents or caregivers
How can I help ?
At the Auckland Hypnotherapy Clinic we offer one hour sessions to help you overcome your needle phobia.
We help calm your fear response.
We teach you valuable techniques to use before and during the event of vaccination or injection.
Due to current lockdown and current Covid-19 mass vaccination we are offering one hour therapy sessions via zoom to help you take control back, feel more calm and prepared mentally. $100 for a one hour zoom session.