Anxiety meds?

[worrier2025]

Hello. I got diagnosed with an early stage cancer last year, as part of that I need regular scans (every 6 months).

I have to wait around 4/5 days for the results and I am struggling with extreme anxiety and worry during that time. I never know when the phone call will come through or what I'll be told & I am struggling to function during that wait. I know this is normal but it's torture.

Is there anything I can take to calm me down during this time? I have to be honest, I've considered benzodiazepines but I know that can be highly addictive. I'm desperate to not have the niggling dread. I also want to be able to function and look after my young children. I'm stuck and wishing for my old life back without this worry.

I feel for you! I'm a cancer survivor and the worst part of it all was waiting for results of tests and check ups. I totally agree with your description of it as torture. Do you have cancer nurses you can ring up for a chat about how you feel as they will be dealing it a lot and may have some solutions for you.

Hi I could have wrote this myself. I had my ct scan last Tuesday and the results due this week. Scanxiety is real. I have stage 4 colon cancer, was stage 2, but it spread to my right ovary. So it’s all removed and I’m all clear. So scans and bloods every 3/6 months. The doctor is happy to give me diazepam on these occasions. They take the edge of things

Thank you both for your replies. @Shetlands I haven't spoken to the nurses lately actually. They are lovely and supportive so perhaps I'll give them a call. Thank you

Sorry to hear you're anxiously waiting too @Shityshitybangbang I hope you get your results soon and they put your mind at rest. I think I'll have a chat with the GP. Thank you.

You're both right, It really is the worst time right now.