We are all being encouraged to have our COVID-19 boosters and flu jabs to prevent the impact of COVID and other Winter viruses. Help is available if you want to have a jab but you’re scared of needles.

The charity Anxiety UK estimates that up to 10 percent of UK adults have some degree of needle phobia. It is very common. But something can be done to help you overcome your fear of needles.

Free help and support is available from the Norfolk and Waveney Wellbeing Service. The team offers Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for needle phobia. CBT is a talking therapy that helps people overcome their problems by changing the way they think and behave.

For needle phobia, the main part of CBT involves gradually increasing the level of exposure to needles and injections. This safe and supportive environment, will allow you to slowly gain control of your fears.

Help is also available if you’re worried about fainting while having an injection. Your therapist will support you in learning how to use the Applied Tension technique. It’s a simple way of regulating your blood pressure which prevents you from fainting. And also helps you to feel in control while you have your injection.

To access this free support, you can self-refer on the Norfolk and Waveney Wellbeing website, www.wellbeingnands.co.uk call them on 0300 123 1503 or speak to your GP about supporting you with a referral.