Ever since about 4th grade I have had a severe phobia of needles. Doesn't matter whether it is injection, IV, or blood draw... just the idea of a needle piercing my skin is enough to make me light headed. I used to have to be given a sedative just to get a TB test or a dose of novacaine. When I had my kidney issues when I was 22 I became a pincushion and managed to get to the point where I don't need a sedative, but I still freak out and get all anxious and panicky. I had to get my blood drawn today. This is the scariest because I have deep, tiny veins (and the person doing the draw ALWAYS manages to inform me of this in a suprised fashion, even though I tell them before hand). I usually get stuck 2 or 3 times, and once was stuck 6. This guy took his time, got the vein on the first try... I am so greatful! I got through it with my dad there next to me. I needed to lay down and needed help walking afterwards as I was shaking and dizzy. Still, I got through it and feel so proud. Some people don't get that this isn't about pain or infection or any other reason people are scared of needles. This is a phobia - no reason, but severe. Some tell me that sincce I have had so many I should be over my phobia and be fine with it. They don't get that it's not that easy. Maybe you guys get it? I'm sure lots of people with anxiety have phobias!