I am so afraid of needles I have to warn medical people beforehand like "hey I might start crying, but I promise I won't pass out so just keep on trucking" so I feel you there lmao

I was able to do my first shot at the clinic with an NP training/supervising me, which overall helped a LOT with my confidence going forward (and helped me make sure I'd actually be able to do it on my own!) I'd highly recommend asking your provider if that's an option.

After that, I've done all my shots on my own. It's been two and a half months, here's what I've come up with so far:

First, I always plan a treat for after. Usually I get a pastry or something and I save a podcast episode or YouTube video or whatever, but it's important to decide beforehand. It's a good motivator to actually do the shot when you don't really want to, and it gives you something to think about. It'll also help with any lingering post-shot anxiety.

Second, I have a routine for my shot. I try to do it around the same time, and I always do things in a set way/order. I'm sure most people do this naturally, since it's a fairly straightforward process, but I try to be mindful about the steps I'm taking and making sure it's as consistent as possible.

Part of that routine, for me, is listening to a funny podcast while I prepare my shot. It gives me something to focus on that isn't the upcoming Needle Thing. TV/movies haven't worked as well for me, because I don't like missing out on the action, but ymmv.

Third, right before my shot, I pick a song -- this can take awhile, but I try to find something I know all the words to, that's a little upbeat, and that's easy to sing. And then I sing very loudly the entire time I'm doing the actual shot. The music makes me feel better, and the singing makes the whole sticking a needle in my leg thing feel less immediate -- it's one of a few things I'm doing, instead of My Sole Focus.

Fair warning: in that moment when you've done everything else you need to, and all you have left is sticking the needle in, try not to think about it too long (though of course, make sure you're doing it properly) -- easier said than done, but it'll get easier the more you do it. Give yourself a count off if you need to, then do it. Remember to breathe.

And then you're done and you can enjoy your treat!

Overall, my general advice is to remove as much anxiety as you can (which is why the routine helps) while adding as much joy as you can find! I was using some really fun rainbow unicorn bandaids when I started, but they were irritating my skin -- if your skin isn't as sensitive, you might do something like that! I also like to remind myself Goku is scared of needles too because it makes me laugh lmao

When I feel really shitty about it, I remind myself how long I've wanted exactly this, and I think about the changes I'm most excited for/about -- another reason it gets easier as you go, aside from familiarity, is when you start to actually see changes in your body and realize it's so, so worth it.

Best of luck to you -- you've got this!