In the forthcoming blog, we delve into the lesser-known but widely experienced phenomenon of "scanxiety"—the anxiety and apprehension associated with medical imaging scans, often felt by individuals awaiting results for serious conditions like cancer. Designed especially for caregivers, this post aims to shed light on the profound emotional toll that scanxiety can take on patients and provide practical guidance on how to effectively support loved ones going through this challenging experience.
SCAN-XIETY
Breast cancer, although a physical condition, isn't faced by the body alone. The mind too participates in this battle and often struggles with anticipatory anxiety, commonly referred to as 'Scanxiety.' This can be intense for both patients and their supporters. During this blog, my aim is to help you understand this emotional turbulence, provide useful coping strategies, and tell you how I walked down this path and emerged stronger.
In this blog, I will be discussing "scanxiety," and exploring various ways in which we can provide support to those who go through it. As a carer, it is crucial for you to understand the impact of scanxiety and learn how you can play a significant role in alleviating the anxiety and stress associated with it.
Breast cancer can be a daunting experience for both the patient and their carers. It often involves multiple rounds of tests, treatments, and diagnostic procedures, including regular scans to monitor the progress of the disease. Unfortunately, these scans can also cause a great deal of anxiety - a phenomenon commonly known as scanxiety. It is vital for caregivers to recognise the emotional toll that scanxiety can have on the person they are caring for, and be better able to provide the necessary support.
From the very first hospital visit and there after with each and every scan or test, we often have to navigate the struggles and emotion toll of awaiting the test results.
The term Scanxiety refers to the fear and worry that individuals with breast cancer experience before, during, and after medical scans. This can occur because scans can reveal the extent of the disease, its response to treatment, or even its potential recurrence. The anticipation, waiting for results, and the uncertainty that accompanies the process can be mentally challenging for both patients and their caregivers.
As a carer, it is crucial to acknowledge your own emotions and the impact scanxiety can have on you. Seeing your loved one anxious and frightened can be distressing, and it is natural to feel concerned and overwhelmed. It is important to remind yourself that your support and presence can make a significant difference in their journey. By understanding their fears and concerns, you can provide the emotional support and reassurance they need.
It is important to understand you are not alone in this and these anxieties are a normal reaction of fear. This is scary and quite often the waiting to find out is a whole lot worse than it should be. Although some scans can be devastating, clear results can often be a time of great relief and a real weight of your shoulders. When Catherine got the all clear after the initial rounds of treatment we found ourselves experiencing a deeper and more profound love for each other. The cancer trial had not broken us, it made our marriage and love for each other become so much more than before. It’s difficult to articulate, but I guess after all we had been through it was like we had fallen in love all over again.
It’s also important to understand your emotions: going through 'Scanxiety' may make you both feel isolated and believe that you fears and anxieties are unique, this leads to increase in distress. Hearing stories from others can help normalise your emotions and validate your experiences. Realising that your feelings are shared by others can reduce the feelings of isolation and helplessness, promoting a sense of connection and understanding.
So how did we cope? Some of the following are examples of what we found and have learned when dealing with Scanxiety.
1. Communication: Open and honest communication plays a pivotal role in supporting someone experiencing scanxiety. Encourage your loved one to express their fears, doubts, and worries. Be a compassionate listener, validate their emotions, and reassure them that you are there for them.
2. Accompany them: Whenever possible, offer to accompany your loved one to their scans. Your presence can provide comfort and reassurance during what can be an anxiety-inducing experience. Additionally, being there for them physically can help them feel more supported and less alone.
3. Distraction and relaxation techniques: Assist your loved one in finding healthy coping mechanisms to manage scanxiety. Encourage them to engage in activities they enjoy and find relaxing, such as listening to music, practicing meditation or deep breathing exercises, or pursuing hobbies. These activities can help reduce anxiety and serve as a helpful distraction during the wait for results.
4. Seek professional support: Consider suggesting professional support for your loved one, such as counselling or joining support groups specifically tailored for individuals with breast cancer. These resources provide a safe space for sharing experiences and connecting with others who can empathise with their situation.
In summary, scanxiety is a prevalent concern for individuals with breast cancer undergoing medical scans. As a carer, you have a vital role in supporting your loved one through this challenging experience. By fostering open communication, offering your presence, and suggesting coping mechanisms, you can provide the necessary support to help them navigate scanxiety. Remember, your encouragement and compassion make all the difference in their journey towards healing and recovery.
Thank you for taking the time to read this and please see the next section if you would like to find out a little more of how faith can help with the anxieties that both the carer and patient may have
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