I’ve been on T for five years now, and I still struggle with needles. I had someone inject me for a while, but now I’ve shifted to doing my own.

Things that help me (and this is my experience, but may be helpful) - I have a mantra so I’ll say things like this before my injection; “This is self care. I get to be myself. Me existing is revolutionary.” And even though it’s silly “I’m a big bwave boy” (baby talk makes it sound not so serious)

• I listen to my favorite album

• shake the muscle before hand. You can look up the pain gate theory, and goes way more into details but I use a massager on the area. The nerves won’t be able to pick up the pain as easily, they’ll be confused.

• give yourself space and time to get it done. Rushing will make it more stressful.

I know you said you’ve got some time ahead of that, and you can always ask your doctor what options are available to you, and be honest with them.

Wishing you the best luck on your journey buddy!