Coping With Worry Whilst Waiting For Scan Results

The anticipation of waiting for scan results can be a nerve-wracking process. Patients are overwhelmed with anxiety and fear as they wait to find out the verdict of their exam but this is completely normal and you’re not alone! Scanxiety is actually a very common problem amongst patients waiting for results.  

But there’s hope: Here at LycaHealth, we have compiled a list of ways that you can stay relaxed while waiting for those all-important results.

How To Reduce Anxiety When Waiting For Scan Results

Stay active 

It’s always great to be proactive with your health. Not only is it an important factor in living a long life, but regular exercise and healthy habits can also help alleviate stress. If you find yourself feeling particularly worried about medical results, try taking 30 minutes out of your day to go for a walk or any physical activity that makes you happy! You don’t have to run miles upon miles every day, all forms of exercise are a great way to combat stress. This includes yoga, pilates, MMA or something like dance! 

Understand your feelings are normal 

If you’re anxious or stressed about your test results, know that it’s normal and lots of other people feel this way too! You may find yourself questioning why these feelings came about in the first place. Don’t worry, there are no wrong answers to this question because everyone is different. Oftentimes when we try to fight our emotions they come back stronger than before so don’t let your worries make things worse for yourself by stressing over them endlessly. Instead, take comfort knowing that feeling worried doesn’t mean anything bad will happen.

Be careful what you search for 

When you’re waiting for the results from your doctor, it can be tempting to turn to Dr Google for information but remember to read with caution. The internet is full of information about diseases and conditions that may not apply to you. Many websites also have inaccurate information which can just add unnecessary stress on top of your worry. If you’re really concerned, talk with your doctor first!

Don’t be afraid to ask for help 

Waiting for any kind of medical test results is extremely stressful. Sometimes being able to openly talk with somebody about the situation can make you feel less alone and as though your worries are not so overwhelming anymore. Even talking to people who have been in similar situations before may help ease some of your fears, making it feel more normal.

Getting help is not always easy, but if you are experiencing anxiety on a daily basis it may be time to take the next step. If you’re experiencing anxiety more often than not, there are professionals and organizations out there that can help. Organisations like Anxiety UK and Mind provide advice as well as support for mental health issues such as anxiety. It is also important to let your GP know so they may be able to offer some suggestions about what course of action would work best for you.

Journaling 

Writing can be a great tool for helping to cope with stress. So, if you are waiting on some medical test results and feel anxious or scared about them, try taking the time each day to write down what is going through your head. 

The simple act of writing what you are thinking and feeling can help relieve stress. Try journaling about your thoughts and feelings for a few minutes each day, either before bed or first thing in the morning, whatever is best for you.

Try Mindfulness 

Mindfulness is all about focusing and being in the present. Being more aware of the present moment can improve your mental well-being. When we’re more in tune with what’s going on inside and out, it also helps us notice signs of stress or anxiety before they get too big.

Instead of letting your worries get the best of you, take a break from time to time. Take some deep breaths and try tensing and relaxing different muscles in your body such as tense-and-release exercises with hands or feet. This will help reduce stress levels throughout the day.

If you have noticed any unusual changes in your body but are reluctant to get them checked out, don’t hesitate to consult with us today. We offer a range of healthcare services across all of our specialist clinics including private breast screening and mammograms. Get in touch with us today with any queries and we’ll be more than happy to help.