How to manage anxiety about getting a tattoo?

This blog answers questions about: How to manage anxiety about getting a tattoo? What are the ways to lower tattoo regrets? What are the therapy options for anxiety?

How to manage anxiety about getting a tattoo?

Some tips that individuals can consider to avoid anxiousness about their tattoo are:

Figure out why you’re experiencing anxiety

To understand why people are experiencing anxiety about their tattoo they must make a note of what is leading to this anxiety. There might be many reasons that an individual might experience anxiety about getting a tattoo done such as its cost, outlook, the pain of the needles, and how people are going to look at it.

To avoid all these possible triggers of anxiousness around getting one’s tattoo people must subjectify their reason for getting the tattoo done and mentally defend their concerns that are causing anxiousness.

Figure out how to handle your tattoo stress factor

Once an individual is aware of is what’s causing their anxiety, they will be better able to break down their fears and defend themselves.

Cost of tattoo

If it is the tattoo cost that is causing a sense of stress and anxiety in individuals people can talk to the artist about their budgets and their expectations.

In cases where people’s ideal tattoo is too expensive, they can ask the artist for possible payment options such as paying them across sessions or even saving up cash for a longer period and then getting the tattoo done in one sitting.

Pain panic

Getting a tattoo done can be very painful and most people who consider getting a tattoo are aware of this pain. However, every individual threshold to pain is different.

The best way to get over one’s pain panics is to go through testimonials of individuals who have a tattoo done before or speak to a friend who has had a similar experience which gives them a sense of confidence and courage to handle the pain.

When people go to get their tattoos done with a mindset that the pain that they will entail is temporary and the emotional satisfaction that they experience after getting a tattoo that they have waited for is long term it can be beneficial for the process.

Clear your doubts about Permanence

Individuals must understand that tattoos are no longer a permanent deal. There are many ways that tattoos can be removed through advancing technology.

Hence if individuals worry that they will regret getting a tattoo done and that’s what is causing their initial anxiety about having it in the first place then they can keep in mind that the process is reversible through some mediums.

Fears of society expectations

People who opt to get a tattoo done must be very clear about why they are getting it done. Only those individuals who are confident about getting a tattoo done for their satisfaction must proceed with the process as considering the societal expectations and judgments post getting a tattoo done might be mentally exhausting leading to anxiety and stress.

When people are determined to get a tattoo done for their happiness and satisfaction their likelihood of regretting that tattoo or experiencing stress about it is low.

What are the ways to lower tattoo regrets?

Some ways to reduce an individual’s chances of regret post a tattoo are:

• Consider the location for your tattoo
• Be sure about the style of the tattoo
• Talk to people with a tattoo before you get one done.
• Be aware of the possible tattoo removal options.
• Stay away from the “tattooer’s curse” Which is the hesitation many tattoo artists feel when they are asked to tattoo a lover’s name for fear of cursing the relationship.
• Do not compare your tattoos to other similar tattoos.
• Visit and consult several tattoo specialists before deciding on one for your tattoo

What are the therapy options for anxiety?

Cognitive-behavioural therapy

Cognitive-behavioural therapy helps an individual to control their anxiety by using strategies like relaxation and breathing. It works on the principles of replacing negative thoughts with positive ones.

Exposure therapy

Exposure therapy is a kind of therapy in which an individual is exposed to a particular stimulus that they usually fear or are anxious about in a graded order.

As and when the individual gets comfortable with the situation or stimulus introduced or exposed to them with each session, individuals get more comfortable with a real-life situation that might have otherwise been a source for triggering anxiety.

Group therapy

It is based on the principle that when an individual interacts with other people who are suffering from the same fears they might not feel left alone or isolated. Group therapy usually involves a group of individuals who are experiencing similar symptoms and problems.

Medication

Anxiety can also be treated with the help of medication prescribed by a health care professional.

Though medication alone cannot help in reducing persistent anxiety it can help in restoring a sense of control and bring temporary relief. 

Online therapy  

In cases where reaching out physically to a professional is impossible or discomforting an individual can opt to seek help through the online medium. 

In this, the therapy sessions are carried out one-to-one over a video or audio call. Some individuals also prefer interacting with the therapist through text as well due to various reasons. One of the most common is the fear of being judged by the therapist or some personal hesitation. 

Online therapy can help individuals to regulate some aspects of their anxiety that aids individuals in carrying out a stress-free life over time

Conclusion

People’s reasons for getting a tattoo done can be many. Some do it for self-satisfaction while some do it as a mark of love. However, the chances of experiencing anxiety about getting a tattoo done and the chances of regretting a tattoo are very high.

To avoid distress and anxiety about their tattoos people must equip themselves with the required facts and consequences about the procedure.

Frequently asked questions: How to manage anxiety about getting a tattoo?

Is it normal to be anxious after getting a tattoo?

It is normal to feel a sense of regret in the initial few days or even months after getting a tattoo. These feelings can be caused due to various personal and environmental factors.

Is there a tattoo for anxiety?

The word “breathe” is commonly symbolized as a mark of anxiety. this type of tattoo is also considered a good option for individuals with depression or a combination of anxiety disorder and mood disorder.

How do I get over my fear of getting a tattoo?

Some tips that individuals can use to get over their fears of getting a tattoo are:

• Take breaks
• Use distractions
• Ask for numbing cream
• Be well aware of your artist
• Be open with the idea of the tattoo not looking good

Why do I regret my tattoo?

Many individuals regret their tattoos due to various reasons. Individuals must understand the various reasons that are leading with this rig threat and tackle them mindfully

Citations

https://www.tattoodo.com/articles/sit-back-relax-ultimate-guide-on-how-to-handle-tattoo-anxiety-4284