😷 If it’s a same day appointment without any preparation beforehand, still let them know any needs. Even if it’s not worth it to spend nearly an hour on preparing something especially for you, still let them know what might work best. If they need to use a speculum, ask for a small one! Even if they can’t use all their time convincing you of how convenient something might be, still tell them if you cannot do certain methods while feeling safe. Is there something on hand to relieve even a little pain? Can it be self administered at home? Can you sit in a different chair? If you cannot possibly resolve something as much as you’d like, ask for them to at least tell you what’s going on and ask how they might cope with similar sensations. Can an X-ray be done instead of a biopsy? If not, ask for them to take your concerns into account and go from there, such as a less invasive tool designed for the same purpose. 😷

😷 Remember that you are not alone and can discuss these issues with a trusted mental health provider. Exploring treatment options with a healthcare provider Exercising to reduce stress Setting realistic goals Breaking up large tasks into smaller ones Spending time with friends and family Confiding in trusted friends or relatives Seeking out comforting situations, places, and people Seeking out support from friends and family Finding a support group Learning to feel good about one’s actions in the face of danger Having a positive coping strategy Being able to act and respond effectively despite feeling fearful Medication and expectation management strategies may also be included in an overall treatment plan. 😷

😷 Before beginning trauma-focused therapy it is important to stabilise the individual with emotional coping strategies and creating feelings of safety. Support strategies that have been found to be helpful in the general population include: mindfulness and grounding in the present moment creating feelings of safety (for example an object/picture that symbolises safety) sensory soothing Autistic people may require: a greater number of sessions a longer or shorter duration to each session regular breaks. 😷

https://www.forbes.com/sites/tarahaelle/2016/03/23/got-your-tetanus-shot-you-may-not-need-another-for-30-more-years/?sh=3b29aade6db3

💉 https://www.forbes.com/sites/tarahaelle/2016/03/23/got-your-tetanus-shot-you-may-not-need-another-for-30-more-years/?sh=3b29aade6db3 💉