Simi R:

Whenever I go to the hospital for my checkup, I have this anxiety fear. I just don’t feel good. So sometimes, you know, I will delay my examination because I was scared. My question is, what strategies you may have that can help ease in that anxiety that I have, or the fear or the anxiety that I have leading up to the checkup day.

Samuel Brotkin , PhD:

Thank you so much for your question, Simi. My name is Dr. Samuel Brotkin. I’m a clinical psychologist specializing in supporting children, adolescents, and young adult cancer patients and their families. Many people feel anxious or worried or experience a range of emotions before scans, appointments, or important anniversaries in their cancer journey. This fear around a medical test, as you mentioned—like as a scan or a biopsy—is often referred to now as this “scanxiety.” Almost every patient I’ve worked with has felt this at some point, often at multiple points during their care.

Now, anxiety is a natural response to something important and uncertain, and in many ways here, anxiety is doing its job. It’s alerting you that this is important and that there is some uncertainty. And it’s okay and in some ways expected, honestly to feel some worry around the time of a scan. The goal isn’t to make these feelings go away. Instead, the goal is to find ways to cope so that they feel more manageable. The good news is that there are strategies that can help.

So first, acknowledge and name these feelings as they arise. Saying “I’m feeling anxious” or “I’m feeling scared” can help you to give you a bit more control in that moment. You can also try giving your thoughts or feelings a separate name or phrase. For example, saying, “Oh, that’s my ‘expecting the absolute worst’ thought coming up.” Simply by naming the thought can help you notice that thought without getting swept away in it.  Also, try not to bottle up those feelings. Set aside time to process them before they build. For example, a week or two before an upcoming scan or appointment, take a few minutes each day to write about some of the concerns that you have, talk with a friend or family member, or check in with your care team.

Second, ask questions. Anxiety often grows in the unknown. When you notice a question, write it down so you’re prepared to ask your doctor when you see them next. Ask your provider what they’re looking for in the scan or what the most likely outcomes are, can really help to ground you in reality.

Third, lean on your supports. Think about who helps you to feel steady. Some people like to talk through their worries; others may prefer not to. Regardless of your preference, scheduling time to be with others around the time of your scan can be helpful. This can include having a friend or family member come with you to your scan or scheduling a meal with a friend the night before or after. Regardless of what you decide, having people around can help. And connecting with others who have had similar experiences with cancer—through hospital-based programs or organizations like Blood Cancer United—can also help.

Fourth, keep up with familiar routines. Continue doing things that help you feel well, like you, going outside, spending time with others, doing art, or listening to music can all help to calm your body and mind and provide stability.

And finally, practice coping skills. Deep diaphragmatic or belly breathing, box breathing, mindfulness, or progressive muscle relaxation can help calm your body. Even simple actions—splashing cold water on your face, stretching, or taking a walk can help calm your nervous system. I recommend thinking of it like a fire drill: practice these skills when things are calm so that when that anxiety alarm goes off, your body already knows what to do.

And most importantly, be gentle with yourself. Anxiety around scans and appointments are a natural human reaction. With preparation and support, it can become more manageable. And if you notice your anxiety continues to feel overwhelming, talk with your care team about connecting with a mental health provider who can help.

Thanks.