“The Wait is the Hardest Part”: How to Cope with Anxiety While Waiting for Test Results for Cancer
By Sarah Friend, MD
Waiting for test results for cancer can be one of the most stressful parts of the journey. The mind races. The what-ifs pile up. And even when you try to stay calm, the anxiety can feel overwhelming.
As a triple-board certified oncologist and founder of myFriendMD, I’ve sat beside thousands of patients during this exact moment. Here’s what I often share to get through it:
1. Name it: “Scanxiety” is real.
You’re not being dramatic. There’s a name for this—scanxiety. Until the testing results are reported and explained, there may be fear. You’re reacting to uncertainty, and that’s human.
2. Focus on the facts, not fears.
Try to stay grounded in what you know. Revisit your doctor’s last update. Not every scan means bad news. Sometimes it’s just routine. If the test results from the scan or biopsy report come to you and results are confusing, reach out to your doctor’s office for clarification. Some computer systems report results directly to patients prior to doctors having time to review them. If your scans or biopsy results are confusing, reach out to your medical team. Whether they provide you with a doctor’s visit to review results or a call to review results, hearing the results from the medical team is often preferred to make sure you understand the results and implications.
3. Create a ‘wait plan’
While waiting for your medical team to report test results, plan small moments of peace—a walk, a favorite movie, a chat with a friend. Distraction isn’t avoidance—it’s survival. After you have reached out to the medical team for test results, a waiting period is guaranteed. Expect it, and make that time count.
4. Limit the Google Spiral.
You don’t need to research every symptom or possibility. Save your energy for when you have the results and can make informed decisions.
5. Ask: When and how will I get the results?
If possible, get clarity on the timeline and method of communication. It reduces the constant checking and waiting.
6. Reach out.
Whether it’s a therapist, a cancer coach, or a trusted friend—talk it through. You don’t have to go through the waiting alone.
At myFriendMD, we believe support doesn’t stop at the diagnosis—it’s needed at every step. If you’re struggling with uncertainty, know that help is here. A one-on-one cancer coaching session can give you space to talk through your concerns and prepare for what’s next—whatever the results may be.
You are not alone.
Read More About Scancity in this next article: Scanxiety and Cancer Surveillance: Rethinking the ‘More Is Better’ Mentality
