Overcoming the fear of needles, or trypanophobia, is crucial in order to get vaccinated against COVID-19 and contribute to ending the pandemic. Although it is estimated that around 25% of adults experience this fear, approximately 7% of adults actually avoid getting vaccinated because of it, according to data from the CDC. The significance of widespread vaccination cannot be overstated. With hundreds of thousands of new COVID-19 cases reported daily and a significant number of deaths, it is essential to increase vaccination rates to achieve herd immunity. Herd immunity occurs when a large portion of the population is immune to a disease, either through vaccination or previous infection, which helps protect those who are more vulnerable. The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes that a substantial portion of the population needs to be vaccinated to safely achieve herd immunity against COVID-19. In addition to the broader impact on public health, it is crucial to consider your personal risk. Contracting COVID-19 can lead to severe illness and even death. Dr. Richard Watkins, an infectious disease physician and professor, highlights the seriousness and potential fatality of the disease. While you may already be aware of the importance of vaccination, what you need is guidance and support to overcome your fear. Here is some information to help you navigate and address your concerns, ensuring the protection of yourself, your loved ones, and the general population. What is trypanophobia, exactly? Trypanophobia, or the fear of needles as they relate to medical procedures, is a specific phobia and a type of anxiety disorder. According to the DSM-5, it is characterized as an intense and irrational fear of needles or injections. Initially, this fear serves as a normal defense mechanism to protect oneself from potential harm. However, in the case of trypanophobia, this fear intensifies and becomes debilitating. The fear of needles can manifest in various medical situations, including vaccinations, blood draws, IV fluids, and anesthesia. The exact causes of trypanophobia are not well understood, but there are theories suggesting that it may be related to a survival instinct that discourages puncturing the body. Fear of pain and the unknown can also contribute to this phobia. The idea of something unfamiliar being introduced into the body can be particularly frightening as it involves a loss of control. Trypanophobia tends to be more common in children, and many individuals outgrow the fear as they grow older. However, for some individuals, the fear persists into adulthood. It is important to acknowledge and address this fear to ensure that individuals can receive necessary medical procedures without undue distress. How can you know if you have trypanophobia? Symptoms of trypanophobia, as identified in a meta-analysis published in SAGE Open Nursing, can vary among individuals. Some common signs of trypanophobia may include: So what can you do if you have trypanophobia and want to get vaccinated? Overcoming a fear of needles, such as trypanophobia, can be challenging, but it is possible with the right strategies and support. Here are some steps you can take to help you navigate the process of getting vaccinated: Before you get vaccinated Once you have booked your appointment, try to shift your focus away from the anticipation of the shot. Instead, engage in activities or hobbies that distract your mind and keep you occupied. Remember that you have likely experienced injections before and have come through them unharmed. It can be helpful to keep reminding yourself of the significant benefits of getting vaccinated. Stay focused on the purpose behind your decision—to protect your health, save lives, and restore a sense of normalcy to your life. If you have concerns about fainting, you can try applying the “applied tension” therapy technique. Tense the muscles in your arms, torso, and legs, and hold the tension until you feel warmth. Then, release the tension and wait for your body to return to normal. This technique may help prevent fainting during the vaccination process. Lastly, remember that the actual moment of receiving the vaccine is a brief and quick process that only takes a second. Keeping this perspective can help alleviate some of the anxiety associated with the needle itself. Overall, be patient and gentle with yourself throughout this process. Take it one step at a time and trust that you have the strength and resilience to face your fear of needles and receive the COVID-19 vaccine. While you’re at the vaccination site While waiting for your vaccination appointment, it’s important to find ways to distract yourself. Distraction can be highly effective in managing anxiety. If possible, bring a friend along for support or use headphones to listen to music or watch a video on your phone. The goal is to block out the current scene and keep your mind occupied. When it’s time for the injection, inform the nurse about your fear of needles. They are likely experienced in helping patients with this fear and may have helpful strategies or techniques to assist you. Notifying them can also alert them to the possibility of fainting, so they can take appropriate precautions. Before the injection, you can practice diaphragmatic breathing, which involves taking deep breaths into your diaphragm to promote relaxation. Squeezing a stress ball or engaging in any calming activity can also be beneficial. Continuing to listen to music or watch a video can help distract your attention during the procedure. During the injection, it can be helpful to avoid looking at the needle. Focus your attention elsewhere and give the needle as little space in your thoughts as possible. Remember, the procedure itself is brief, and by minimizing your focus on the needle, you can help reduce anxiety and discomfort. After your vaccine Congratulations! Overcoming a phobia is a significant achievement, and it’s important to acknowledge and celebrate your success. Dr. Gallagher suggests giving yourself a well-deserved pat on the back and treating yourself to something special as a reward. It could be purchasing an item you’ve been eyeing or indulging in a delicious meal from your favorite restaurant.
Category: Anxiety
The stress of traveling is real. Many people are afraid of traveling, and dealing with large crowds and using public transit in a foreign country may be stressful. And don’t even get me started on the effects of dietary shifts on the digestive system! However, if you travel to beautiful places like Maui’s beaches, Kyoto’s woods, or the North Island of New Zealand’s rolling hills, you may return home feeling more relaxed and at peace. More and more hotels include yoga, meditation classes, and “forest bathing” as part of their “wellness” packages to help guests relax and recharge during their stay. We’ve compiled a list of our most anticipated travel locations and health and wellness initiatives for the next year. Cape Cod, Massachusetts Cape Cod is one of the top East Coast summer destinations due to its pristine beaches and delicious seafood. But this area is also stunning in the off-season, when you can take advantage of cheaper rates, fewer visitors, and less bridge traffic. From January 11 to 13, 2019, guests of the renowned Chatham Bars Inn may take advantage of a holistic Girlfriends Getaway Package that includes 15% off spa treatments, a variety of wellness activities (such as meditation, yoga, and nature walks), and cooking workshops with the resort’s culinary staff. Visit the Cape Cod National Seashore whenever you’re in the area. You will return after a peaceful stroll down the 40 miles of Outer Cape shoreline, past scenic cranberry bogs and stunning lighthouses, feeling rejuvenated. Baja California Peninsula, Mexico This peninsula in Northwestern Mexico is situated between the Pacific and the Gulf of Mexico, so there is no shortage of beautiful beaches to enjoy. And if you’re looking for a wellness-focused vacation in Baja California, go no further than the exclusive One&Only Palmilla on the Sea of Cortez in Los Cabos. Together with wellness-focused travel agency Wanderwell, the resort has planned six trips for the coming year. The New Year, New You trip is January 11-13; the Vino & Vinyasa trips are March 8-10, May 10-12, and September 27-29; the Mindful Wellness trips are June 7-9; and the Eatwell Discovery trips are November 1-3. Spa days, yoga classes, and courses on mindful healing will all be available during these getaways. Mallorca, Spain Mallorca (especially the area surrounding Palma, the island’s capital) is known for its lively nightlife and larger beach resorts, but the island also has much to offer those who are more interested in relaxation or healthy activities. For instance, the Ashram Mallorca is situated on an olive estate close to Porto Sóller. This year, the firm will host three separate health retreats in April, May, and June. Hiking 3,000-foot peaks, kayaking, doing TRX and Pilates, and winding down with a calming yoga class—these are just some of the outdoor activities that will be featured on the itineraries designed to help you declutter your mind. The retreat is set in a beautiful home with a saltwater pool and breathtaking views of olive, lemon, and orange trees, and the vegetarian food is delicious and nutritious (plenty of fresh juices and vegetables). Peace at last. Maui, Hawaii Maui is a paradise for wellness-seeking adventurers, with activities ranging from snorkeling with sea turtles to climbing through volcanic craters at Haleakala National Park to surfing at Ho’okipa Beach. If you’re looking to splurge, the Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort has you covered with complimentary activities including outrigger canoe rides, guided kayak excursions, stand-up paddleboard instruction, and beachside yoga sessions. While you’re there, treat yourself to a relaxing service from the extensive menu at the Awili Spa and Salon. You may create your own special oil mixture to be used in massages and other treatments by opting for the Apothecary Blending Experience, which costs $55. Queenstown, New Zealand Aro Hā is a beautiful retreat center overlooking Lake Wakatipu in Queenstown, New Zealand that emphasizes the mind-body connection. The resort’s much-lauded retreats feature mindfulness-based components at every turn. (The literal translation of Aro H is “in the presence of divine breath.”) Yoga, functional strength training, massage, culinary workshops, and spa treatments are just some of the options available at these retreats. The vegetarian food is geared at improving digestive health, and the building was constructed with sustainability in mind. Santa Fe, New Mexico Anyone who has ever been to Santa Fe knows that there is a certain enchantment to the “City Different.” Santa Fe has always been a popular destination for those in the creative industries. Visit the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, which has over three thousand pieces by the artist, to be inspired. Bandelier National Monument has almost 70 miles of trails where you may get some fresh air and learn about the history of the Ancestral Pueblo people while learning about their cave houses and ruins. Visit the Santa Fe Farmers Market and stock up on healthy, locally grown vegetables from more than 150 vendors. Retreat to the mind and body rejuvenating Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort. Relax in the gardens or outdoor baths, learn to cook or meditate, or participate in a yoga or meditation session. Kyoto, Japan If you’re up for a journey to the Land of the Rising Sun, Travel & Leisure’s 2017 destination of the year, Kyoto has several options for you to unwind. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, one of the most photographed spots in Kyoto, is also one of the greatest places to practice forest bathing, an immersive kind of meditation in nature, which is thought to have originated in Kyoto. The fall foliage is stunning, especially at the many temples and shrines that are only accessible to the public during this time of year. Relieve tension with a bath in a hot spring by booking a stay at a ryokan, a Japanese-style inn. Barnard, Vermont Everyone agrees that we should avoid Vermont throughout the year. The Green Mountain State is a year-round haven for outdoor enthusiasts, as it offers rejuvenating hiking in the summer, stunning fall foliage, and excellent skiing in the winter. Barnard, Vermont,
Suicide stands among the top 10 leading causes of mortality in the United States, a sobering statistic that translates to one life lost every 11 minutes. Yet, the realm of suicidal ideation, encompassing the haunting presence of thoughts and impulses driving one towards self-destruction, extends even further. While annual suicides tally in the tens of thousands, it’s essential to recognize that millions more grapple with the darkness of suicidal contemplation, planning, or survival after an attempt. Delving into the intricate web of motivations underlying suicide and suicidal ideation is a multifaceted endeavor. While understanding the “why” behind these tragic experiences represents just one facet of a comprehensive approach to suicide prevention, it serves as a critical cornerstone. By comprehending these underlying factors, we can foster a more compassionate response to those enduring suicidal thoughts, extend solace to those bereaved by suicide, and gain a deeper empathy for the anguish woven into the fabric of suicidality itself. Why We Don’t Say ‘Commit’ Suicide Our choice of language when discussing suicide carries profound implications. An illustrative instance lies in the transition away from using the term “committed suicide,” which, although previously common, now faces criticism from experts. Instead, they advocate for more neutral expressions like “died by suicide” or “took their own life.” This shift recognizes that employing “committed” in this context can perpetuate stigma, unjustly attaching a criminal connotation to the act of dying by suicide. Likewise, it’s imperative to abandon phrasings like “successful” or “unsuccessful” when referring to suicide attempts. Surviving a suicide attempt isn’t a measure of failure, just as dying by suicide isn’t an accomplishment. Using straightforward terms, such as stating whether the individual died or survived following an attempt, reframes the conversation with accuracy and sensitivity. When addressing a person’s suicide, another crucial guideline involves refraining from divulging specifics regarding the method employed, such as the exact manner of death. Sharing these details has been linked to the concerning phenomenon of suicide contagion, wherein one suicide can trigger a chain reaction of further suicides. Recognizing the potential implications, it is advisable to exercise caution and mindfulness when discussing the circumstances surrounding suicide. Being At Risk for Suicide The intricate nature of suicide lies in its multi-faceted composition, where no single determinant can reliably predict who will ultimately succumb to it. Nonetheless, discerning potential indicators of suicidal ideation and implementing screenings can illuminate the risk landscape with more clarity. It’s vital to debunk the misconception that suicide stems from weakness, a character flaw, or selfishness. Such stigmatized attributions only perpetuate misunderstanding and may deter individuals grappling with suicidal thoughts from seeking help. Instead, the intricate tapestry leading to suicide typically weaves biological, environmental, and social threads, rendering the affected individual more susceptible to thoughts of self-harm. Among the factors at play, some are noteworthy, including the experience of a family member’s suicide, ready access to means capable of causing harm, and the societal stigma encircling mental health struggles that may hinder seeking assistance. The exploration of suicide and its prevention remains an evolving journey, necessitating ongoing research to unearth its intricacies and potential strategies for averting its devastating outcomes. As our understanding deepens, additional factors may come to light, further enriching our grasp of this complex issue. Reasons People Choose This Unraveling the precise motives behind a suicide death is often an intricate endeavor. However, by listening to the narratives of individuals who have battled suicidal ideation or made suicide attempts, we gain a glimpse into the complex web of factors that contributed to their distress. Here are the insights we’ve gleaned: Mental Illness The interplay between mental illness and suicide risk is a nuanced landscape, defying easy categorization. This intricate dynamic becomes clearer when we examine how mental illness intersects with an individual’s overall quality of life. Within this context, several pathways through which mental illness can contribute to suicidal tendencies emerge: 1. Disparities in Access to Mental Health Care: Unequal availability of mental health care and treatment can exacerbate the risk of suicide for those struggling with mental illness. Limited access can hinder timely intervention and support. 2. Social Isolation and Lack of Support: Feeling socially disconnected or devoid of a reliable support network can magnify vulnerability to suicidal thoughts. A sense of isolation can amplify distress, creating a fertile ground for despair. 3. Isolation and Loneliness: The emotional burden of isolation, loneliness, or being misunderstood can culminate in a heightened risk of suicide. The absence of meaningful connections may intensify the struggle. 4. Struggles in Maintaining Relationships: Challenges in sustaining relationships due to mental health issues can contribute to the perception of isolation and fuel suicidal tendencies. 5. Impacted Quality of Life: Diminished quality of life resulting from amplified stressors, such as the inability to maintain employment due to mental health challenges, can further exacerbate vulnerability to suicide. 6. Impulsivity and Borderline Personality Disorder: Some mental health conditions, like borderline personality disorder, may be characterized by heightened impulsivity, amplifying the risk of impulsive actions, including self-harm. 7. Varied Mental Health Conditions: While conditions like depression and substance use disorder are often linked to suicide risk, other mental health conditions such as anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and personality disorders can also elevate the likelihood of suicidal tendencies. In essence, the relationship between mental illness and suicide is intricate, often influenced by a cascade of interconnected factors that shape an individual’s emotional landscape and overall well-being. Recognizing this complexity underscores the significance of comprehensive mental health support, destigmatizing conversations, and fostering a society where those struggling receive the care and understanding they deserve. History of Trauma The impact of trauma can reverberate significantly regardless of one’s age, but childhood trauma emerges as a particularly potent long-term precursor to suicide risk.4 Childhood trauma encompasses a range of distressing experiences, such as emotional neglect, physical abuse, parental loss, sexual assault, and bullying. Disturbingly, these risk factors accumulate, magnifying the likelihood of suicide attempts with each traumatic life event endured. The repercussions of trauma aren’t confined to their initial
Experts explain how to know when feeling blue has crossed over into full-blown depression. Experiencing occasional moments of feeling down is a normal part of life. However, when a persistent and overwhelming sense of sadness or hopelessness disrupts your daily activities, it could be a sign of clinical depression. Based on data from the National Survey of Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) in 2020, 8.4% of adults aged 18 and older in the U.S. experienced a major depressive episode. Identifying depression can be challenging as many of its symptoms are commonly experienced by people at various times. Dr. Jennifer Payne, the director of the Women’s Mood Disorders Center at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, explains that most of the symptoms of depression must be consistently present every day, almost all day, for at least two weeks, according to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). One of the key symptoms that must be present is a persistent depressed mood or a loss of interest or pleasure in nearly all activities. If you suspect that you may be dealing with depression, it is important to seek help and talk to your healthcare provider for a proper evaluation and support. You’re Eating More (or Less) Than Usual Depression often leads to feelings of withdrawal and disconnection, which can have varying effects on appetite. According to Dr. Yvonne Thomas, a Los Angeles-based psychologist specializing in depression and self-esteem, being preoccupied with negative thoughts can cause a loss of interest in eating or preparing meals. This withdrawal may result in forgetting to eat or experiencing a reduced appetite. On the other hand, depression can sometimes lead to overeating as a coping mechanism. The mix of emotions that typically accompany depression, such as sadness, pessimism, and low self-esteem, may drive individuals to seek comfort or relief through food binges. In both cases, the relationship between depression and appetite can be complex and individualized. Seeking professional help and support is essential for addressing the underlying issues and finding healthier coping strategies to manage the impact of depression on eating behaviors. You’re Sleeping Too Much or Too Little Depression can affect sleep patterns in different ways, leading to either increased or decreased sleep. Some individuals with depression may find themselves sleeping more as a way to escape from their sadness and feelings of disengagement. The lack of energy that accompanies depression can make them feel tired all the time, and sleeping becomes a refuge from their emotional struggles. On the other hand, some people with depression experience restless or interrupted sleep, or even insomnia. The constant presence of obsessive thoughts or ruminations can prevent them from winding down and getting the recommended seven to eight hours of sleep that most adults need. Changes in sleep patterns can serve as a potential indicator of depression, but they can also exacerbate the condition. When sleep is disrupted or inadequate, it can throw off the body’s internal clock, leading to increased tiredness, lack of focus, and diminished coping abilities, further worsening the effects of depression. Recognizing the relationship between depression and sleep is crucial, as addressing sleep disturbances can be an important aspect of managing depression effectively. Seeking professional help and support can provide guidance in developing healthy sleep habits and implementing strategies to improve both sleep quality and overall mental well-being. Small Things Agitate You Depression can manifest in subtle ways, and one often overlooked sign is heightened irritability, as noted by Dr. Jennifer Wolkin, a health psychologist based in New York. If you are experiencing depression, you might find yourself feeling grumpy or easily annoyed by things that wouldn’t normally bother you. You might catch yourself snapping at friends and coworkers over minor issues. This increased irritability can be triggered by the weight of numerous heavy emotions that come with depression. Dr. Yvonne Thomas, a psychologist, compares the psychological pain of depression to physical pain, explaining that both can lead to increased anger and irritability. When you don’t feel like your usual self and are burdened by emotional distress, it can diminish your patience and put you on edge, making you more susceptible to irritability. Recognizing irritability as a potential sign of depression is essential, as addressing the underlying emotional struggles can help improve mood and overall well-being. Seeking professional support and therapy can be beneficial in managing and coping with depression and its various manifestations. You Can’t Concentrate or Focus Experiencing forgetfulness about work deadlines or important commitments, such as picking up your kids from a playdate, and feeling as if your mind is in a constant state of haziness or out-of-focus can be indicative of depression. Dr. Jennifer Wolkin, a health psychologist, explains that being consumed by thoughts of sadness and emptiness can lead to a cognitive fog that significantly impacts your job performance, memory, and ability to make sound decisions. This mental fog can cause you to make poor choices or engage in unhealthy and risky behaviors. It’s crucial to recognize these cognitive effects of depression and seek professional help and support to address the underlying emotional struggles. By addressing depression, you may find that your mental clarity and decision-making abilities improve, allowing you to lead a healthier and more fulfilling life. You Don’t Enjoy the Things That Once Made You Happy Experiencing a loss of interest in activities and hobbies that once brought joy and fulfillment is a common indicator of depression. Dr. Jennifer Wolkin explains that feeling down or sad might cause someone to skip a few outings, but with depression, you become apathetic about the activities and pastimes that previously gave you pleasure. This loss of interest can lead to isolating yourself from social engagements and hobbies. Depression sets up a vicious cycle where it diminishes your ability to derive happiness from experiences, causing you to withdraw from the very activities that could potentially brighten your mood. This cycle of disinterest and isolation further exacerbates the impact of depression on your overall well-being. Recognizing the loss of enjoyment in once-enjoyed activities