How to Cope With Scanxiety: 6 Tips

If you’re feeling nervous about going in for a medical scan, you’re not alone. The anticipation of medical tests can put worrisome thoughts into our minds and give us great amounts of anxiety. These feelings of anxiety and apprehension before imaging scans are commonly known as scanxiety. Our friends and family may also express worry about our upcoming scan, and feelings of uncertainty can put everyone on edge. 

It’s perfectly normal and valid to feel scanxiety. Whether you’re going in for a first screening or a follow-up scan, there are many ways to cope with it. 

We asked our CaringBridge community for their best tips to soothe any scanxiety you might be experiencing. We hope these compassionate ideas will help alleviate any feelings that may arise about your next scan.

1. Prayers, Meditations, & Positive Self-Talk

Prayer is an uplifting act that helps you ask for compassion and assistance. Before your scan, say a prayer and trust in the process. 

Meditation is also helpful. Meditation encourages theta and delta brain waves, which are associated with relaxation and wakeful rest. Consider trying 5-10 minutes of meditation before your appointment, such as trying a guided meditation or simply focusing on your breathing. 

You can add positive affirmations to your meditation and prayers, or say them on the way to your appointment. Affirmations can lower your cortisol levels, which is your stress hormone.

“Prayer. Believe that God is with me…I give the burden to Him….and then I go about enjoying my day! It works. Be happy! Enjoy each and every day.”

Susan R. 

“Prayers, faith, and a positive attitude no matter how bad things get! Never give up the fight!”

Maryanna T. 

2. Talk to Others Who Have Been There

Before your scan, consider reaching out to others who have been through a similar experience. You can find comfort in hearing about how family and friends worked through their scanxiety.

When talking to others, feel free to ask questions about the process and their personal experience. You may feel better prepared after having an idea of what to expect.

“Family, especially my husband, brother, sister & in-laws. Friends, coworkers who have been there already.”

Sue S.N. 

3. Trust Your Strength 

Nobody’s life is without obstacles. You’ve probably had to overcome challenges and tough situations in the past. Think back to those challenges and remember that you worked through them, even when they were extremely difficult. 

You will do the same in this situation. Trust that you’ll find the courage and strength to cope with your scan and its results. Just like the previous experiences, you’ll also figure out your next steps. Remember that you can rely on yourself. 

“Trust, Faith and Acceptance. I focus also on my past resiliency and strength of others with cancer.”

Karrie M. 

4. Find Moments of Quiet & Peace 

Allowing yourself quiet time without distractions can calm your mind and body. Engage in a peaceful activity or hobby that brings you peace. Turn off your devices for a while and give your mind a break. Read a book, engage in a creative activity or try meditation.

Getting out in nature can help you connect with your body and ease your stress as well. Consider going for a walk or simply laying in the grass and gazing at the clouds. Disconnect with the world and allow yourself to process your thoughts and emotions.

“Scanxiety is almost worse than knowing the actual diagnosis. It’s so easy to slip into worst-case scenario mode with these tests and procedures. Knitting on my front porch somehow seemed to be my only brief escape from this stress.” 

Tammy B. 

5. Picture Your Happy Place 

Before your scan, try creating in your mind a peaceful, joyous environment. Imagine your ideal vacation spot, such as a beach full of pink sand or a waterfall in a lush forest. Perhaps you find joy in amusement parks or ice skating with your kids. 

Formulate these images in your mind and immerse yourself in every part of it. Imagine the sounds, smells and feelings you receive in these places. Focusing on your happy place will help you maintain a sense of peace and comfort during your scan.

“Yoga breathing and imagining happy places during ultrasounds, FNA (biopsy) and scans.”

Tammy B.

6. Connect With Loved Ones

Scanxiety can be a very lonely feeling. Connecting with loved ones during vulnerable moments like this for encouragement, strength and support is important in combating those feelings of isolation.  

Even if your loved ones aren’t physically nearby, it doesn’t mean they can’t offer their support. The CaringBridge Journal is a great resource not only for you to post updates, but also for your friends and family members to leave uplifting messages and provide light during dark moments.

 Additionally, releasing those anxious thoughts by writing in your CaringBridge Journal can be a helpful part of the process. You have the ability to keep your updates private or make them public, whatever feels right to you. 

“Having people pray for me & leaning on His word.”

Cathy G. 

How Do You Channel Inner-Strength? 

The possibility of a serious diagnosis can be overwhelming. During this time, remember to be compassionate with yourself and reach out to others. The power of a loving community can pull us through the dark times and help us move forward with strength. 

If you’ve ever dealt with scanxiety or any health issue, we’d love to know how you’ve summoned your courage. Comment below to share with our CaringBridge community the ways you’ve handled tough situations and channeled your inner strength.