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Original poster

Is anyone else still completely unvaccinated?

353 replies

Honeyhorse · 13/12/2021 08:09

I know this will probably cause arguments, but I’m just wondering who else is still completely unvaccinated like myself.
Mine is due to extreme anxiety and a needle phobia.
I’m not anti vaccination and I don’t think it’s a conspiracy theory or microchip etc.
I want to talk to my GP about how I’m feeling but I can’t get an appointment Sad
Now everyone is getting boosters and I haven’t even had one, I feel embarrassed and ashamed, but I can’t do it, it’s like I need to be knocked unconscious before I’ll have it. I’ve even walked into the vaccination centre but ended up leaving after a few minutes as I had a panic attack.

I don’t know what to do.

OP posts:
Sally090807 · 13/12/2021 08:56

If the vaccine only gives 6 months protection does that mean anyone who is unvaccinated only needs one now and their second in 6 months etc

Fallagain · 13/12/2021 08:56

@TheNoonBell

Message deleted by MNHQ. Here's a link to our Talk guidelines.
They are not! There are way more vaccinated people opposed to unvaccinated people which is why you’re misunderstanding the data. This infographic is American, which is were the data you are referring to comes from.
Is anyone else still completely unvaccinated?
Holidaytan · 13/12/2021 08:57

I would be, were it not for the fact I’m going in holiday over Xmas and couldn’t cope with the idea of isolating for 10 days afterwards.
I’m not anti-vaccine, but feel this one isn’t necessary for myself.
Now we are looking at third and potentially fourth, fifth jabs I think when does it end……… one vaccine to protect, is not the same as constant inoculations for the same thing (that you may not even catch, or get ill from) over and over.

godmum56 · 13/12/2021 08:57

I know three (unrelated) adult people with needle phobia. they all got help from close friends or family to get in the door and done...in every case when they got to the vac centre, the supporters spoke to the folk there explaining the situation and asked for help to get it done as quickly as could be...I believe one even got jabbed in the car park as they couldn't walk through the door.

BlueEyesWhiteDragon · 13/12/2021 08:58

I'm currently unvaccinated although I have an appointment booked for Friday if I can bring myself to go through with it and keep my anxiety about it under control.

I had covid last year which laid me low for a couple of days - this was before I was eligible for a vaccine - but otherwise all OK.

I'm currently battling anxiety and depression which is not a good combination as I'm anxious about side effects from the vaccination (I know low chance but my anxiety is turning the chance into a catastrophic event) and my depression is saying its not the end of the world if I die from catching covid anyway as life is pretty rubbish atm for many reasons so is tag teaming me with the anxiety to say don't do it!

It's the first time I've actually managed to book a slot though (previously would go on the page see available appointments and not book) so guess I'm making progress!

godmum56 · 13/12/2021 08:59

@Holidaytan

I would be, were it not for the fact I’m going in holiday over Xmas and couldn’t cope with the idea of isolating for 10 days afterwards. I’m not anti-vaccine, but feel this one isn’t necessary for myself. Now we are looking at third and potentially fourth, fifth jabs I think when does it end……… one vaccine to protect, is not the same as constant inoculations for the same thing (that you may not even catch, or get ill from) over and over.
its not all about the getting ill. everyone who gets it incubates it and the more incubation, the more mutation. Omicron may not make people very ill but its ability to spread quickly massively increases its potential to mutate.
Twoweekcruise · 13/12/2021 09:01

Please, please don’t feel embarrassed, needle phobia is a genuine and common phobia. I have it along with awful anxiety and health anxiety. It took me an absolute age to pluck up the courage to get my jabs. I had my second last Saturday and I can honestly tell you that I had to ask the nurse if she had started (I looked away as I didn’t want to see it go in), I literally felt nothing.
This is such an awfully stressful time for us all but particularly hard if you suffer any kind of anxiety as there are so many people who are being down right mean when it comes to people’s feeling over this awful situation we are all in.
I hope you manage to find an answer soon op.

LimeTreeGrove · 13/12/2021 09:02

Are you able to email your GP surgery? We are and then they give you an appointment. My MIL had a fear of flying but her doctor gave her some meds to calm her nerves. You might be able to get the same for before your vax

SpookyScarySkeletons · 13/12/2021 09:03

My sister is absolutely petrified of needles. To the point of having to be held down.

She went for her covid vaccine because she wanted the protection and explained beforehand just how scared she was.

The nurse who did it was amazing, he tapped her arm repeatedly telling her he was just looking for the best place to inject then said "right you're done!" She didn't even feel it. She cried the whole way there.

Honestly I know it's scary but it's worth it and it's also the least painful needle I have ever had.

LimeTreeGrove · 13/12/2021 09:04

I was given valium before laser sight correction, although be the time I had the other eye done he said they'd stopped doing it but red wine would have the same effect so I took red wine with me.

WanderingFruitWonderer · 13/12/2021 09:05

Oh OP, I so relate Flowers
I also went to a walk-in centre a few days ago. Really tried. I had a panic attack, and almost threw up Sad
I too feel very ashamed and guilty.
There are several reasons I haven't been vaccinated.
I have to say I'm being extremely careful. I plan to isolate a week before Christmas, and will test before travelling to see family.
I'm dosed up with protective vitamins and other stuff.
But, the guilt at not being vaccinated is overwhelming me. It's awful isn't it. You're not alone at all...

thesockfromtheroof · 13/12/2021 09:06

Unjabbed here and no intentions of changing that for the time being.

You have no reason to feel ashamed. It is a choice. However if you want it and are struggling for other reasons then yes, try to speak to your GP. Good luck x

BlueMongoose · 13/12/2021 09:14

@Honeyhorse

I know this will probably cause arguments, but I’m just wondering who else is still completely unvaccinated like myself. Mine is due to extreme anxiety and a needle phobia. I’m not anti vaccination and I don’t think it’s a conspiracy theory or microchip etc. I want to talk to my GP about how I’m feeling but I can’t get an appointment Sad Now everyone is getting boosters and I haven’t even had one, I feel embarrassed and ashamed, but I can’t do it, it’s like I need to be knocked unconscious before I’ll have it. I’ve even walked into the vaccination centre but ended up leaving after a few minutes as I had a panic attack.

I don’t know what to do.

Is there a 'walk in' place near you? If so, maybe go along at a quite time of day (if possible) and be honest about it with whoever is booking in. They may be able to reassure you, or get someone out to talk to you about it. Or might allow you to take a friend in to support you.

Will your GP surgery not even arrange a phone call appointment? That's bad.

BlueMongoose · 13/12/2021 09:15

Sorry, meant quiet time of day of course. Blush

MrsMariaReynolds · 13/12/2021 09:15

Op, honestly, the Covid vaccine jabs are absolutely painless. My flu jab hurt a bit, I donate blood and that needle hurts, but the Covid jabs (I've now had all three) I barely felt at all. Get in there, you'll be fine, and I imagine they'll be over the moon to see you ♥️

ifonly4 · 13/12/2021 09:17

Do try ringing your GP again, or even emailing (my DD emailed her surgery as needed vaccine earlier than entitled and GP was so helpful). If not, speak to 119. Would it help if someone accompanied you to the appointment - a friendly face really might help. Also, the vaccinators are used to seeing all sorts of people come through the door, with different concerns - it'll be nothing new to them.

JesusInTheCabbageVan · 13/12/2021 09:19

@TheNoonBell

Message deleted by MNHQ. Here's a link to our Talk guidelines.
Is there a vaccine that can enable adults to grasp basic primary school maths?
BlueMongoose · 13/12/2021 09:20

@Holidaytan

I would be, were it not for the fact I’m going in holiday over Xmas and couldn’t cope with the idea of isolating for 10 days afterwards. I’m not anti-vaccine, but feel this one isn’t necessary for myself. Now we are looking at third and potentially fourth, fifth jabs I think when does it end……… one vaccine to protect, is not the same as constant inoculations for the same thing (that you may not even catch, or get ill from) over and over.
a) it isn't for yourself alone you should have it, it is for other people more vulnerable that you seem to think you are b) there are people who thought it wasn't necessary for them because they were young and fit or whatever who are now dead or permanently damaged from covid The OP is doing their best and is struggling, so deserves help to get it done. You don't seem to feel the obligation she does if you can but won't.
Florianus · 13/12/2021 09:20

I'd just like to say that it is possible to overcome needle phobia. I know it is easy to say, but it is usually the fear of the procedure rather than the procedure itself.
I had to steel myself for a series of (non-covid related) jabs, and was astonished to find myself saying "ready" through gritted teeth, only to be told that I had already been jabbed - and had not felt a thing. I discovered that much depends on the skill of the vaccinator - those that pinch a bit of upper arm usually avoid any pain, and all seem to be very understanding if you admit your fear. I still haven't conquered fear of injection in the gums for dentistry, but arms I no longer worry about (much, anyway!). Good luck.

pointythings · 13/12/2021 09:20

No judgement here from me, needle phobia is awful. My DD1 used to suffer from it as a child and it made getting vaccinations really hard. The vaccinators will be pleased to see you and glad that you're trying despite your fears. I hope you find the support you need to get the protection you deserve.

DDUW · 13/12/2021 09:20

This reply has been withdrawn

Message from MNHQ: This post has been withdrawn

Bubblecap · 13/12/2021 09:21

It’s been a very long time since I was a nurse. They are used to people with phobias. I have seen many people faint at the sight of a needle. People’s behaviour when fearful can get extreme across the whole range. People crying and fainting is fine, wasn’t keen on people trying to wrestle me to the floor which happened to me a couple of times.Get in touch with your GP they will be able to prescribe something that will basically be the equivalent of a pre med that will relax you.

PinkSparklyPussyCat · 13/12/2021 09:22

@godmum56

I know three (unrelated) adult people with needle phobia. they all got help from close friends or family to get in the door and done...in every case when they got to the vac centre, the supporters spoke to the folk there explaining the situation and asked for help to get it done as quickly as could be...I believe one even got jabbed in the car park as they couldn't walk through the door.
I have a needle phobia and only had my jabs as DH went with me and was allowed to go in with me. I'm booked for my booster tomorrow and I'm terrified and it wouldn't take much for me to cancel. However, the staff at the vaccination centres were lovely and did their best to make me feel more comfortable
ssd · 13/12/2021 09:22

Hi @Honeyhorse, i have a complete needle phobia too. Made much worse by seeing people getting jabbed every time i turn on the telly. I can't stand it.
Anyway, I'm fully jabbed. I just wanted to let you know how unsore the covid jag is, its literally a tiny wee nip. I was amazed as i was expecting it to be really nippy. I found the flu jag nippier but honestly the covid jag is done before you know it. I wish i could convince you, i know how you feel.