How to overcome a phobia. HELP

[blahzx]

Hi, I am learning IV in my class right now. I think I have a really bad venephobia. As I was tying a tourniquet to prepare to make vein pop on myself. my body starts to feel weird when it comes to touching vein or seeing vein popping. Even if I see vein on other people. At first I thought I was scared of needles but I guess it wasn't because I can inject needles just fine. Now everytime I think about vein my body starts to become shakey. I can give IV on a arm model just fine. But when I tie a tourniquet on my classmate, vein starts to pop up and as I was feeling for vein, my body is telling me to stop but my head is telling me to force myself to touch and feel for vein. Is there anyways to get rid of this phobia? I want to give IV but at same time my body doesnt want me to.

[Anonymous1257]

Exposure therapy

seriously though, go talk to a mental health professional, there are treatments for getting over phobias in just a few sessions of you're willing to commit

[ShelbyaStar]

I think it will most likely fade with time and exposure. I've had some big issues in the past with needles and vomit and am doing much better with both now. Still have a bit of an issue with anesthesia but that seems to be fading as well.

I think the big thing is to try not to get anxious in anticipation of getting anxious. Often I end up feeling faint watching a procedure because I am so worried I will end up feeling faint!

If I were you I would tie a tourniquet on myself a couple times a day, maybe while watching TV or something to distract yourself a bit. If you find yourself totally unable to do this or it makes it worse, I would seek counseling.

[blahzx]

Okay i'll try that. I just feel weak and shakey when it comes to vein, but I'll take your advice and try to keep tying the tourniquet on myself a couple times. thanks!

[bagladyrn, RN]

Why don't you also try palpating veins on friends and family at home? That may help since it won't matter so much if you get weak and shaky - you can stop, wait for the feeling to pass and try again. No pressure to perform in this setting which may reduce anxiety as you desensitize yourself.