I’ve been on the testosterone gel for a few years now, but my bloodwork just kept coming back low no matter how much we upped the dose. Because of that, my endo finally switched me over to injections. The big issue is that I have this totally irrational fear of needles.
I’ve managed to get through three shots so far. The first was at the doctor's office with a super patient nurse helping me out, and then I did two at home. That first home one took me a solid thirty minutes just to build up the nerve; I eventually told myself I’d poke on the count of three, though I think I actually hesitated until four lol. The week after that, I thought maybe the "stabbing" motion was the problem, so after an hour of cold sweats and a lot of internal pep-talking, I tried just slowly and gently pushing it in. It worked, but it wasn't easy.
Yesterday was shot day again and I literally spent the entire day holding the needle over my stomach trying to find the courage. I ended up just capping it and telling myself I’d do it today instead. Well, it’s today, and I’ve already wasted over an hour just sitting here sweating bullets and feeling nauseous. I’m honestly disgusted with myself for struggling this much.
The thing is, it’s not even a huge needle - I’m using 27 gauge 1/2" needles. I know for a fact it doesn’t even really hurt, but just the idea of piercing my own skin is tying me in knots. I’ve always hated needles though; apparently it used to take three nurses to hold me down for vaccines when I was a kid. I’m nearly 50 now and I’d like to think I’m a grown-up, but I feel like I’m acting like a total baby. I just need to find a way past this ridiculous phobia.
I do have a therapist, but I don’t see her until Tuesday and I really want to get this done today since I’m already late. If anyone has any tips, tricks, or even just some encouragement, I’d really appreciate it.
man don’t beat yourself up over this, needle fear is way more common than people admit. the fact you’ve already done a few means you’re not failing, you’re just human
honestly respect for even trying. a lot of people would’ve bailed completely. it gets easier with time, your brain just hasn’t caught up yet
ngl i was the same way at first, sat there staring at it forever. once it finally clicks, it becomes just another boring part of the routine
you’re not weak for this at all. phobias don’t care how old you are or how tough you feel in other areas
you’ve already proven you can do it, even if it takes a while. get it done when you’re ready and don’t stress the clock, you got this 💪
Man I feel this so hard. You’re not crazy or weak at all, that mental block is real even when you KNOW it barely hurts. I’m the same way, my brain freaks out way before my body does. What helped me a bit was icing the spot till it’s kinda numb, putting on some dumb loud music, and just committing without staring at it too long. The more I look, the worse it gets. Also don’t beat yourself up for taking time, you still did the damn thing and that counts. Tons of grown adults panic over needles, you’re not alone in that at all. You’ll get there, even if it’s slow and messy. Honestly you’re doing better than you think.
you’re definitely not alone with this, needle anxiety is super real even when you know it doesn’t actually hurt. don’t beat yourself up over it
honestly the mental part is way worse than the physical part. your brain is just being extra dramatic to “protect” you
I’ve heard a lot of people say distraction helps a ton - music, tv, anything to get out of your own head for a minute
also don’t call yourself weak for this… phobias don’t care how old or tough you are. the fact you’ve already done a few is huge
