How to Overcome a Fear of Hospitals

Fear of hospitals can be common among both young and old. Most people associate hospitals to unhappy places because they go there when they are ill or to visit sick people. On top of that, the antiseptic smells, the sight of needles and memories of the sickly or ill can all contribute to the fear of hospitals. However, with proper education of the importance of a hospital, its goals and some emotional preparation, it is possible for people to overcome their fear of hospitals.

Instructions

• 1

  Tour the hospital ahead of time and get an idea of what the facility inside looks like. When you are familiar with an environment, it can make the experience of going back less frightening.

• 2

  Request to meet the doctor and staff members who will be helping you at the hospital. This will ease your anxiety of not knowing who will be tending to your needs and helping you. Most of the time, the staff is usually very pleasant.

• 3

  Seek to understand the procedures that you or the person you are visiting will be going through. It helps to be a little more prepared and know what you will be undergoing instead of being taken by surprise.

• 4

  Bring some comfort items to the hospital for children such as a favorite book, toy, CD or blankets and a special pack of fun items for entertainment while in the hospital. This can help distract from any anxiety of being at the hospital. For adults, bring some magazines to read, flowers to brighten the room, video games and snacks to help pass the time and ease the anxiety.

• 5

  Seek professional treatment if your fear becomes debilitating and is preventing you from being productive or being able to seek the medical attention you need.

• 6

  Make everything as normal as possible and remain positive. Take comfort in the fact that the hospital is a place for healing.