Videos for Exposure Practice

One of the best things you can do to overcome needle phobia is to reverse the urge to avoid and engage with the topic safely. With the help of Dr. Heather Wassarman, we’ve put together a compilation of videos of people receiving vaccines to help you face your fear. Exposure practice breaks fear into smaller, more manageable steps so the brain can rewire its automatic fight-or-flight response to needles and learn through experience that needles (while unpleasant) are safe.

Importantly, the goal of exposure is not to get “rid” of anxiety. For people with needle phobia, needles are extremely unpleasant, period. However, repeated exposure that you are directing leads to increased confidence that you can handle the surges of anxiety triggered by needles. In other words, the focus is less on eliminating anxiety but on allowing you to carry that anxiety along with you while you move towards values-based actions like accessing healthcare. Go at your own pace, and start with something easier if imaginal exposures feel too overwhelming at first. After practicing exposure, ground yourself using a relaxation strategy and reward yourself for your hard work!

NOTE: If you have a history of fainting, consult your doctor before practicing exposures that could lead to lightheadedness or fainting. If you are concerned about fainting, consider having a friend or family member nearby and/or practicing exposure with the guidance of a trained CBT exposure therapist. Applied tension is a practice that can reduce symptoms of lightheadedness and fainting.

Videos for Exposure Practice

Man receiving flu shot
shot occurs at 20 seconds

Flu shot clinic (multiple people receiving flu vaccines)
series of shots starts at 40 seconds

First healthcare worker in Queens, NY to receive Covid vaccine
shot starts at 1:28

President Biden getting Covid vaccine
shot starts at 1:40

Kamala Harris getting Covid vaccine
shot starts at 14 seconds

Dr. Fauci getting Covid vaccine
shot starts at 1:20

Sir Ian McKellan getting Covid vaccine
shot starts at 35 seconds

Dolly Parton getting Covid vaccine
shot prep starts at 2:30

For more tips on practicing exposure, you can download this handout. These materials are for educational purposes only and are NOT intended to replace or serve as therapy.

Disclaimer

Information being provided on this website is general in nature and is not intended to replace or serve as therapy. Should you be experiencing emotional distress, it is encouraged that you contact your doctor to locate a mental health professional in your area. Seek immediate help if you are experiencing thoughts of harming yourself or others at your nearest emergency room.