5 Practical Tips to Manage Anxiety While Waiting for Test Results Ask them to name five things they can see, hear, smell or feel. We asked our Mighty readers to tell us the best thing someone said to them when they received devastating news. Posted on May 28, 2021 by May 28, 2021 by If you're tested during or after your appointment, ask: You can then contact your insurance provider to get a clearer understanding of their policies. May they discover what is really going on with my health. 71 Bible verses about Waiting - Knowing Jesus Here are 13 words of encouragement for sick person who just got diagnosed with a terrible illness: 01 "I know you are worried about this diagnosis, but you've always been a fighter. Anxiety, as with these other emotions, can carry over into other areas of your life. 2023 Dotdash Media, Inc. All rights reserved. We spoke with people on both sides of the diagnosis doctors, psychologists and people who have been through their own health scares for their best advice on how you can help make a difficult time a little easier. But I can honestly say I feel God's peace now. ~Psalm 94:19. 2023 MJH Life Sciences and CURE - Oncology & Cancer News for Patients & Caregivers. Words of encouragement for someone waiting for test results Get off your butt and put your body in motion. Check her story out in the book, A Letter to My Mom.. All rights reserved. Colossians 3:15 NIV Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body, you were called to peace. How do you stay calm when waiting for medical results? L | Opponents say legislation is 'dangerous, misguided and extreme' Last year, Rep. Freiberg joined a panel of medical professionals and advocates for "medical aid in dying" legislation at a University of Minnesota Center for Bioethics-sponsored event. Step 1 - Sit in the tension, don't go into desperation. Lord, I ask that you take absolute control as I undergo a crucial medical test today. What to Say to Someone Waiting for Test Results | CaringBridge . What to say to a friend who has received bad news? If results are shared by phone, email, or online, how does the office ensure they will only be shared with me or my designees? The Cancer Council (cancervic.org.au) has a checklist of questions to ask when you get results, while NPS MedicineWise (nps.org.au) has a list of tests and medications detailing ingredients, possible side-effects and alternatives. Before visiting, giving advice, and asking questions, ask if it is welcome. And then consciously choosing to change and release them. In fact, it may be the hardest thing youll ever have to face. Everything Is Not OK: A TV Show Gave Me Flashbacks to Cancer, Radiation Dose May Increase Risk of Colorectal Cancer in Hodgkin Lymphoma Survivors, TKI Drug Plus Chemotherapy May Improve Lung Cancer Outcomes. What to do while you're waiting for medical test results Its bad enough that it took forever to schedule an appointment that started an hour late, but now all you can do is go home and stare at your phone, waiting for it to ring. . What do you do? Waiting for test results can be a nerve-wracking experience. Have you still no faith?. Do you need to hire a part-time nanny to help with the kids? A cortisol blood test is one of the most commonly used blood tests. There are some things you can do while you wait: If you are living with chronic pain, make sure you discuss it with your healthcare providers. Sometimes, after youve waited days or weeks for test results, you just cant wait any longer. I pray that my results will be normal so I can glorify you with a healthy body. If you are asking, How do you pray for medical healing?. Please give me positive ultrasound test results. By Mary Kugler, RN During these frozen moments in time, its hard to think about plans for a future that may not be. 5 Ways to Manage the Waiting Game | Psychology Today But please dont beat yourself up over what is not under your control. How to Not Freak Out When Waiting for Test Results | Elemental - Medium Waiting for a diagnosis can be one of the most difficult things a person experiences. Youve made it through the work day. Having the medical system constantly making you wait for thingsappointments, tests, consultations, resultscan make you feel like throwing in the towel and just giving up. The longer you have to wait, the more you may have ups and downs, and the more intense your feelings may become. When you're waiting for medical test results or a potential diagnosis for yourself or your baby, time seems to come to a grinding halt. I miss having you around. Sending good, healthy recovery vibes your way. You may feel shocked, scared, concerned or uncertain on behalf of your loved one, said Anne Moyer, an associate professor of psychology at Stony Brook University. There was a strange silence between us as if the celebration of life had been rained on by the unnecessary struggle with uncertainty over the last four days. Do try to distract yourself Anxiety is a perfectly natural and valid response in this situation. Impatience is perhaps the first emotion many people feel when awaiting a diagnosis. Her work has been published in medical journals in the field of surgery, and she has received numerous awards for publication in education. Waiting for Breast Cancer Diagnosis Results - Practical Tips Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Tue 28 Feb 2023 19.01 EST. 6. Let love be the one to knock on your door so that by the time you start to feel, you'll know it's real.". When the word finally came that the scan showed no changes, aka, you get to live a little longer, I was literally stunned by relief. Lord, may I have every reason to rejoice as I finally receive my medical test results from the doctor today. Thank you, dear Lord, because the result I will receive shall be nothing far from what I anticipate. Offer to chauffeur or even attend appointments. Why You May Need a Healthcare Provider's Appointment to Get Your Lab Results. T | How To Wait For A Diagnosis Without Losing Your Mind A simple I will keep thinking of you, or I wish you much love and strength or Im sending you a big hug is a perfect way to end your note. 1 Peter 5:7-8 NIV Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. Reneging on a promise to the big I am is bad karma. So do something for . We often say, "call me if you need anything," but in reality, few will ever call to ask for that help. 'That may be through reading, listening to music, meditation or confiding in a friend.' We know you will again come out with flying colors. Meeting in-person to go over results helps you both see what's happening and figure out why. Also cut out alcohol as it can not only cause mood swings, but can also prevent you from starting immediate treatment if needed.. Theres often a flurry of activity and assistance immediately following a diagnosis or accident, Winawer said. You may feel impatient with the line to get out of the parking ramp at the store. 'In situations where you have no control over the outcome, the best thing you can do is try to take your mind off it,' says Cohen. Your enemy, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. I hope you're feeling better now, and I can't wait to see you get back to your normal routine. She has written several books about patient advocacy and how to best navigate the healthcare system. It might be natural to offer to help by saying, Let me know if you need anything at all. However, that can put a person dealing with an illness in an awkward position of having to think of a way for you to assist them, said Nick Arquette, founder and CEO of Walk With Sally, a nonprofit that provides services to families impacted by cancer. Psalm 56:3-4 NIV When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. Remember when you went in for a biopsy, CT scan or blood work a few days ago, and your doctor said shed call back with the test results, but she didnt? Just saying . But waiting for diagnosis delays that process since you don't even know what you can do to solve the problem. Did you know prayer works in everything we do? Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. 64. Although you might be wondering, try not to ask, How are you doing? as it can bring up an unwanted reminder, Pandapas said. Dont ask what you can do to help or say, Let me know if you need anything. Many people will never ask for help even though they need it. By clicking Accept All Cookies, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. She lost her father to stage 4 lung cancer in August 2016, and previously worked at a childrens cancer research organization, so she knows firsthand about the cancer experience. Higher levels of cortisol would indicate higher levels of stress. Also, strengthen me to receive the outcome in good faith, whatever it may be. Sometimes the uncertainty leaves you seemingly without an anchor. If this includes you, then you may enjoy some of the memes about waiting for test results weve gathered below. H | In the victorious name of Jesus, I pray, Amen. What do you say when someone is ill? Common Feelings When Waiting for a Diagnosis - Verywell Health It depends on your age, health, and the type and stage of your cancer. All it really means, though, is that the test didn't detect the virus. K | Pandapas said her friends continued to show their support throughout her recovery, which was very meaningful to her. 10 Things To Say To Yourself While Waiting For Test Results Even with potentially serious chronic conditions, like HIV or diabetes, once your condition is under control, you may only need to see a healthcare provider once a year. They probably dont need armchair treatment recommendations based on your second cousins brothers experience.. What do you say to someone expecting results? It was so great to have someone simply hang out and spend time with me at home, she recalled. Mainly so that God will imbue them with the wisdom and grace they need to do the right thing. . This anger is often directed at the medical system that is making you wait for your diagnosis. One of the best things you can say is, "Just tell me if you want me to leave or stop askingyou can't offend me!". 15 Great Prayers for Good Medical Test Results Some people look for more information about cancer during this time. Also, imbue the medical personnel who are conducting his tests with the wisdom that comes from you. You may feel tense and your mind may be troubled with how this diagnosis may affect you and your loved ones. True love is bound to reveal itself sooner or later.". My husband was very adept at helping my friends navigate my ego.. Dont Waste any time trying to feel where in the body your cancer has mostly likely returned. They may intervene if follow-up requests seem excessive or inappropriate. Lastly, Alison and Brian urge you: dont over-promise! Hebrews 11:23 NIV By faith Moses, when he was born, was hidden for three months by his parents and they were not afraid of the kings edict. In Jesus name, I reject every evil manipulation regarding my health. Nationwide News Pty Ltd 2023. Lord Jesus, Im grateful for your mercy and grace in my life. Outside of this, the worries are a problem for future you not present you. With uncertainty about your health issues, you are left in limbo, not knowing exactly how you should feel because you don't know what you're facing. Merciful God, thank you for providing the doctors who treat and heal illnesses and diseases. I | Fill me with the peace only you can give. That's because your health is at risk in some way. Words Of Encouragement For Exams - Myilibrary.org. I reject every conspiracy of darkness to make me shed bitter tears concerning my health in the name of Jesus Christ. I underwent a PET scan last Thursday. Also, try to be comfortable with silence: Don't try to fill blank space with chatter about yourself, she said. 1. Follow-up labs can tell you whether your strategies are working. Uncertainty is not easy to handle and some are more difficult to handle than others. 2. Making Use of Telehealth for Healthcare Provider Appointments, Telehealth for Ankylosing Spondylitis During COVID-19, What to Do If You Get a Positive At-Home COVID-19 Test Result, Why You Might Get Billed for Messaging Your Provider in MyChart, Understanding Your Nerve Conduction and EMG Results, Why People Are Noncompliant with Treatment, Time until emergence of HIV test reactivity following infection with HIV-1: Implications for interpreting test results and retesting after exposure, Strategies for initial management of hypertension, Want your test results? You know that I have been leaning in on You for full and complete healing of this problem, and I am standing on Your Word in this matter. PDF Easing Waiting Scripts - Language of Caring Waiting Quotes Quotes tagged as "waiting" Showing 1-30 of 787 "If pain must come, may it come quickly. But try to suppress that natural inclination when speaking to a loved one dealing with a diagnosis. I need both your guidance and strength as I go through the entire procedure. encouraging texts to send someone waiting for test results, 15 Powerful Prayers for Marriage Anniversary, 15 Helpful Prayers for Marriage Reconciliation, 50th Wedding Anniversary Prayers: 17 Inspiring. Think about practical strategies to simplify your life. Indian J Med Res. At an appointment, your healthcare provider can explain options and tell you whether more testing is needed. You are also agreeing to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. I am grateful that you allowed me to lean on you when I was most vulnerable and anxious. If you're struggling to find the right words, here are 12 kind things to say to someone with cancer: 1. Tell your story to us, no matter how big or small. However, if you are not sure of the diagnosis, some information can be confusing and upsetting. When you follow your own agenda doing the things that are most important to you personally and professionally thats when you feel on top of things, energised and can be more present in the moment., To receive life-changing news is similar to grief, psychologist Julie Scheiner says. So, I can assure you that as you make the above prayers for good medical test results, the Lord will give you nothing but a favorable outcome and peace to wait patiently without any anxiety for a doctors report. Loving God, thank you for helping me undergo the challenging procedure. Don't ask what you can do to help or say, "Let me know if you need anything." 10 Things to say to someone with a chronic illness. Many healthcare providers use online medical chart systems. If, by chance, any news surfaces from the test, I am awaiting their results. Sometimes a consult with a pain doctor is needed to help manage pain. Everlasting God, I surrender my anxiety to you and ask that you overwhelm me with your love. Do Realize that all of our planning, cancer or no cancer, is based on the assumption that were going to be around in the future. Waiting a long time for a diagnosis that has serious implications can lead to feelings of having no control over things or being overwhelmed. When stress attacks, our brain fires excitatory neurons indicate this anxious emotion. Also, try to be comfortable with silence: Dont try to fill blank space with chatter about yourself, she said. And you might have to deal with symptomssuch as dizziness, nausea, or painwhile you're waiting for an answer. It can divinely turn around the outcome of any medical test when waiting for the result. A lover of hip hop music, hot sauce and kimchi, she lives in Maryland with her husband, two dogs, cat and feisty 2-year-old daughter. By entering your email and clicking Sign Up, you're agreeing to let us send you customized marketing messages about us and our advertising partners. Quotations About Waiting For Someone. Matthew 11:28-30 NIV Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. A note to remind you that I love youand I hate that youre sick. Amen! "Never rush in love for it never runs out. So you make the call and once again, youre waiting. I was always doing just fine until someone asked me that question, then Id be holding back tears, she said. Things to say to someone with cancer - MD Anderson Cancer Center Perhaps, you have undergone a series of medical tests, and it turned out that you have a condition that requires medical attention; you should pray for a medical miracle. Amen Lord, Jehovah, God of Healing, we come to you today, to lift up a dear one who needs You. Let us know in the comments below. As with impatience, frustration with your medical issue can carry over to other parts of your life. Trisha Torrey is a patient empowerment and advocacy consultant. I miss having you around. 1. ~ Isaiah 26:3. Read and meditate on these Scriptures while waiting for test results and watch God fill your heart with peace instead of the usual anxious thoughts following a medical test. Assist me in being patient and calm during this period of waiting. After all, it may not feel "safe" to release your frustration with the clinic where you are receiving care (you might want to be seen as a "nice patient"), so you may finally let it go when your spouse forgets to pick up milk at the grocery store. Time is not a thing that passes it's a sea on which you float.. By the time I return to the doctor for the report of my diagnosis, may I receive normal results and hear everything looks good.. What should you not say to a cancer patient? For some people, talking with friends, family, a clergy person, and/or a counselor can help in dealing with these feelings while waiting for a diagnosis. This sudden transformation is so difficult to process, on both sides.. At dayofdifference.org.au you will find all the information about What To Say To Someone Waiting For Medical Results. And by faith, I declare that it shall not prosper. Ultimately, underneath it all, when you're waiting for that scary results (potential bad news), you're wondering if you're going to die. Even with certain types of cancer, including colorectal and prostate cancer, there's little evidence quarterly visits reduce your relapse risk or improve survival rates. November 30, 2011. You may feel uneasy and apprehensive. Most of all, bless me with good health, in Jesus name. And be thankful. You're the bravest person I know, and you will get through this. Now you want to go grab a bite to eat, or read a book in the park, but the nervousness of the test results even follows you out in public. 34 Things To Say To Someone Who's Just Received Devastating News - Yahoo! Uncategorized what to say to someone waiting for medical results. I need strength as I head to the hospital today. In fact, according to the charity Breast Cancer Now, some people say waiting for test results is the most worrying part of the entire process, regardless of the outcome. Once you begin that train of thought, it can go on and on. Breast cancer survivor Elissa Ashwood coped with her diagnosis by breaking it down into chapters. In an age of instant everything, cancer patients being told that the data from the cutting edge technology that is creating real-time images of our innards will be available in anything less than a nanosecond defies logic and seems unnecessarily cruel. I am sending you all my love and prayers during this time. Sitting in silence may just be what the other person needs. Oops! Abba Father, peradventure, it turns out unfavorable; I ask that you take me toward the path of healing. To check in with ourselves and notice what our thoughts are focused on and what tension we may be holding in our bodies. American Associated of Retired Persons: AARP. Marley Hall is a writer and fact checker who is certified in clinical and translational research. When the test results finally emerge, may they calm my nerves with overwhelming good news. God uses waiting to change us. Unfortunately, its also inevitable that well all deal with this kind of situation in life. Waiting for a diagnosis can be one of the most difficult things a person experiences. "The doctor may be waiting for test results before being able to treat you." "We need to see people with life-threatening problems before those who do not appear to have such serious problems." "Because this is a teaching hospital, we have our physicians and residents talk with you and examine you which also takes time." Do things that induce your flow experience. Have you ever had a chance encounter with a stranger who showed you some unexpected kindness or help at a moment when you really needed it? Show the doctors what they need to see on my x-ray. Q | 5. W | Mental health support can be a crucial pillar of cancer treatment to improve quality of life and even physical treatment outcomes. They had an uncanny sense of timing. Often, routine blood or imaging tests are part of preventive care. You should also encourage them to take as many needed breaths as possible. P | Here are uplifting words of encouragement and encouraging words and quotes for anyonefriend, family or spouse. If youre facing a possible life-changing diagnosis, the waiting can be especially stressful. Specifically, blood tests can help doctors: Evaluate how well organssuch as the kidneys, liver, thyroid, and heartare working. Family Practice. Do all test results require a follow-up appointment? Impatience can workits way beyond your diagnosis and enter other parts of your life as well. Delaney KP, Hanson DL, Masciotra S, Ethridge SF, Wesolowski L, Owen SM. 8: Be alert and of sober mind. Lastly, Lord, please help me trust fully in your wisdom and in the knowledge that you will bless me with sound health. Get better and get back to your amazing self soon! Follow-up appointments for going over test results are appropriate if you're just being diagnosed, monitoring treatment effectiveness, or trying to manage chronic illness. Thank you because the results did not mark the beginning of sorrow for me and my loved ones. Your fretting needs an outlet, though. Verywell Health's content is for informational and educational purposes only. They can do so as long they verify it's you. Required fields are marked *. Make a follow-up appointment beforehand if the results might be something you need to discuss. If a healthcare provider asks you to schedule an appointment to go over test results and it doesn't seem necessary, ask why. U | 69 Synonyms & Antonyms of WAITING - Merriam-Webster I also request that you guide my radiologist to make wise and knowledgeable suggestions to my doctors afterward. Pray for the physicians, laboratory technicians, nurses, and health care providers that will be involved. Please be with him at this crucial time. F | One of the best things you can say is, Just tell me if you want me to leave or stop askingyou cant offend me! Winawer suggested. In fact, waiting can actually be a positive good that he often uses to make us more like his Son. 2). We asked the CaringBridge community, many of whom have experienced this exact situation, their thoughts on what to say during these hard times. Ask God for divine financial provision so that you can take care of the costs of all the recommended tests. Most of all, I ask that you give me the grace to always maintain a healthy lifestyle and good food diet from now on so that I will always be well nourished. Youve waited long enough, and today is finally the day you get your results. nag your doctor, Test result communication in primary care: clinical and office staff perspectives, To track the progression of a chronic illness, To check for a recurrence of a treated condition. Anxiety and worry that accompanies the period of time before undergoing or receiving the results of a medical examination. Please heal my bones where I need healing, so I can ease moving henceforth. You may feel frustrated if there are mix-ups with your insurance or with test results that come back inconclusive. If youre stuck in a hospital waiting room, it can be tempting to indulge in junk food from the vending machine, but a healthy diet can lower anxiety levels. Why Do I Need an Appointment to Get My Medical Test Results? Lord Jesus, thank you for allowing me to get this blood work done. Double-check that the imaging center or lab has your providers correct information on file. A 14bn plan to reduce NHS backlogs caused by Covid is failing to meet targets, with cancer waiting times at their worst-ever levels, parliament's spending watchdog . Trish is the Cancer Editor at The Mighty. While most people will be relieved to talk about it, others may not be as willing to open up, Winawer noted. On the other hand, if the results only require a minute or two of the provider's time, it's fair to ask for the results by phone, mail, or secure message. "Waiting is not the problem, worry is," said Paula H. Finestone, PhD, a clinical psychologist at Fox Chase Cancer Center. Be wary of any office that says they only contact you "if there is a problem." Either way is okay, and dont press people who dont seem ready to talk about it. Also, stay with me as I await the results, which I do not doubt will be good ones. Telehealth appointments may be a good compromise between delivering results in person versus a phone call, letter, or secure message. They may need support, but they may also be so tired of being a patient.. Basically, waiting is not fun. In fact, the helplessness that loved ones often experience can magnify your feelings even further. You may have trouble sleeping at night, find yourself being nervous, or be preoccupied with thinking about the diagnosis. Could I tell from the demeanor whether or not the results were good or bad? You or your loved ones might fear burdening each other and may not always feel comfortable expressing frustration, impatience, or anxiety. What do you say to someone who is nervous about surgery? This Waiting for Medical Test Results Prayer can help lower your stress level and rely on God as you wait.