Suggestions on how to deal with Vaccine Hesitancy: Can We Talk?

 .... Public health officials stress that the COVID-19 vaccines will provide the best hope for returning to “normal.” Yet, a recent study from Kaiser Family Foundation revealed one-quarter of the population “probably or definitely would not take the coronavirus vaccine.”   

Much is at stake. For life to return to anything approaching normal, 75% of the population must be immunized. If enough people avoid the vaccine, COVID-19 transmission will continue. Honest, fact-based conversations about the vaccine among family and close friends have an urgency that strikes close to the heart. Since some conversations are likely to be emotionally charged, it’s important to be able to communicate and listen actively. You’ll need to understand your own feelings about the issues, and also deal with someone else’s strong feelings — all while being able to think clearly and stay focused — basic psychoanalytic technique! 

Difficult conversations 

If a close relative or friend says they won’t take the vaccine, should you engage them in discussion? Is it possible to have a conversation about a deeply divisive and emotional issue? Should one try to persuade?  

Those who believe the pandemic is a hoax and vaccination is foisted on us by the deep state are probably not open to either dialogue or persuasion. This could end in a bitter fight and it might be best to avoid the topic altogether.  

However, many people are undecided and may be open to discussion.  ...