Anxiety While Waiting for a Diagnosis
The pandemic has changed our perception of health and illness. Now people are more careful with their health and wellbeing. Getting ill and going to the hospital is not a very nice experience. Most people experience anxiety while getting their check-ups in the hospital but if you are in for something more serious, the anxiety can be very distressing. The time between your check-up and getting the results is stressful. In this article, we will discuss how to manage your anxiety while waiting for the diagnosis.
“Very practical suggestions” Peter
95 sections
6-Weeks Self-Paced
- Educational Content
- Quizzes
- Self-reflection material
- Suggestions & feedback
- Worksheet, tips & tools to use
25% discount
Chapter 1:
Is Being Anxious Before a Diagnosis Normal?
But why do we assume the worst? waiting for the results can be a stressful time as many thoughts are running through my head. Studies show that in times of uncertainty we almost always assume the worst. This is also related to the fact that you do not have control over what the future holds. By assuming the worst we tend to brace for loss if anything bad is going to happen.
Chapter 2:
Emotions Felt While Waiting for the Results
- Impatience- There is a sense of hurry to find out what the results are going to be.
- Frustration- Being sick and having to spend time in the hospital can be very frustrating for most people.
- Anger- Frustration can quickly turn into anger at the medical system, your doctors, friends, and family, or towards yourself.
- Anxiety- Anxiety and stress are common reactions to uncertainty.
- Sadness- You might also feel hopeless and sad about your situation.
Chapter 3:
What Can You Do to Manage Anxiety While Waiting For a Diagnosis?
Talk to Friends or Family
It is a good idea to vent your feelings to close ones. Your friends and family will be patient listeners. This not only reduces your stress but also opens channels for solutions.Join a Support Group
If you are waiting for a medical result regarding a serious illness, then you can join groups for people going through similar experiences. This can give you new ideas on diagnosis and treatment. This can also connect you to people who can understand how you feel.Self Care
Do not forget to take care of yourself by eating healthy food and exercising well. By doing so, you can reduce the impact of stress on your body and improve your focus without having anxiety while waiting for a diagnosis.Keep Yourself Busy
It can be stressful because of the unknown but going about your daily activities and sticking to your routine can make you think that things are normal. Keep doing your work so that your mind does not wander towards stressful things.Let Go of the Control
The major cause of this stress is the loss of control the person waiting for the result feels. By being mindful of the present and not thinking about the future we can slowly lose the control we were holding on to so dearly. Sometimes this sense of control comes from expecting perfection in all situations and that everything should turn out according to you.See a Counsellor
When you feel that your anxiety is not coming down then it is advisable to go see a counselor. He or she will offer better solutions to anxiety management. They can help you deal with the anxiety while waiting for a diagnosis.Listen to Music
Whether you’re in the waiting room, in your car, or at home or work, music can help you to reduce stress, or find the strength to face difficulties.Therapy Animals
Animals can also be trained to provide comfort and warmth to stressed-out people in hospitals. Ask your hospital if they have therapy animals that you can see.Chapter 4:
Call for Action
"Very practical suggestions" Peter
95 sections
6-Weeks Self-Paced
- Educational Content
- Quizzes
- Self-reflection material
- Suggestions & feedback
- Worksheet, tips & tools to use
$9.00
$12.00
25% discount