For patients and families

Needle anxiety

Are you or your child feeling anxious about getting a vaccine?

Needle anxiety is common in the community and there are some strategies for both you and your child and your immunisation provider to be aware of and practice before the immunisation encounter.

See the following recommended resources:

• Stop, Breathe & Think Kids: app for practicing mindfulness
• Hack The Vax: Strategies to Reduce Stress of the COVID-19 Vaccine
• Meg Foundation
• ImaginAction: calm during procedures and pokes
• Needle phobia: Melbourne Vaccine Education Centre
• Is your child frightened of needles? Here’s how to prepare them for their COVID vaccine: The Conversation
• Having a poke plan or a procedural support plan may help.