What techniques can the practice use to help me?

This will depend on which techniques the practice is experienced in, and which you feel would help you most. Many practices offer several types of sedation, including inhalation (‘gas and air’) and intravenous (an injection). Other practices offer hypnosis and relaxation techniques. You would learn these techniques yourself, which would allow you to gain control over your feelings of distress or fear. You can also learn relaxation techniques from specialist teachers or at home. They can be very useful in controlling anxiety (see our information about ‘relaxation and sedation’).

Counselling is another way of dealing with feelings of anxiety. This is usually carried out by a member of the practice team, in a room away from the surgery. You would be encouraged to discuss your fears so that you can deal with them and overcome them.