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Anxiety awaiting Medical tests
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Hi. I recently turned 50 and have undergone several routine medical tests and my anxiety awaiting results is through the roof. I had a mammogram for first time. My neighbour whom had breast cancer said to me ages ago she could not feel any lumps, so this is freaking me out a bit. I feel like they are going to ring me with bad news even though I have no reason. Im terrified of my phone and any calls. I have had restless nights sleeping last week, bad dreams. I panic about it about 20 times a day. I relax and then all of a sudden bang "they could ring". Silly me had booked in for 2 more health tests too, so everything is all at once.
I go for a walk and exercise, but its when Im resting the thoughts come back. I have spoken to my Dr and they just said distract. I have used CBT, this helps "thanks brain", but then the thoughts always come back.
I think am doing right thing getting tested, but I have three weeks to wait for the results and am a nervous wreck (though functioning) Can anyone reassure me doing right thing despite the enormous anxiety? I spoke to mammogram people and they said its pretty normal to be anxious and just get on with it
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hello and welcome.
your way of thinking is normal.
Finding distractions and engaging in activities like walking and exercise is a great way to manage anxiety. It's natural for the thoughts to come back, even after using techniques like CBT - many others have gone through similar feelings while waiting for results (like me) ...
A few years ago, I was referred to a specialist and this was to get my PSA base levels worked out. Will skip over the fact that my levels are higher than they should be but that is why we have a vase line. So while trying to establish the base line, I was told that if the next test was higher they would have to have closer look. Between the time of the blood test and getting the results I was expecting the worst. In the end it was all OK.
What your Dr said to you has been said to me as well. They mean well enough, but I when you are the person in that position it is easier said that done. And if I understand you correctly and say "thanks brain" , then that is also a positive step/action. (I also had a similar strategy in place for accepting compliments.
I wonder what you would say or what advice you would a friend who told you this story?
I want you to know that you are OK and taking proactive steps towards your well-being and to give yourself credit for that. If you need additional support, don't hesitate to reach out or trusted individuals in your life or chat here, or ???. You're doing the right thing, and I'm sending you positive thoughts for good news and peace of mind.
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Thankyou for your reply..
"Thanks Brain" is part of CBT and a way to let the thoughts flow over you. It works, but thoughts do creep back.
What would I tell a friend- "Distract, and your doing the right thing".
Its just hard living it, with the anxious thoughts. My Dr says its always better to find out. I think of this a lot.