Hello, in January 2015 I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. It was a complete shock considering I was 19 years old. The whole issue has turned my life on its head to say the least. Even to this day I struggle to come to terms with the illness and to say I cope would be an utter lie. Somehow I seem to stay breathing, however my management is appalling. I will be the first to admit I miss injections and don't test my blood, not to mention my careless diet. This however is not because of my stubborn nature but purely because of my needle phobia. Even having to look at my insulin pens causes me great distress. It is a major concern to both me and my family. I understand there are other options such as the pump, this is something that I temporarily tried and tested to no avail. Is there anyone who could perhaps offer some advice? Any knowledge or suggestions are welcome and would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
Welcome
@rubyking
I had and still have a needle phobia. It's mostly controlled now but every so often I feel it bubbling under the surface. Funnily, I'm ok when I'm doing the needles, but freak out when it's a nurse or somebody else.
How I dealt with it was by 'thinking past' the injection. It's hard to explain, but I didn't think about what I was doing, I thought past that to what I was about to eat/do. So obviously I'm concentrating and looking at the needle because I have to, but my conscious mind isn't thinking or looking - it's busy 'thinking past' the needle.
I taught myself to do that over the first weeks of diagnosis, but there's psychological help available - do seek as much help as you can until you find something that works for you.
I have a pump and that's a lot better. What was the problem with the pump for you?
Don't despair - phobias can be beaten, or at least reduced enough to allow you to give your diabetes the care it needs. Avoiding complications and feeling more myself on a daily basis is a good motivator for me.