How can you prepare mentally for your upcoming PET CT scan after experiencing a relapse?
First, it's wonderful that you're taking such excellent care of your physical health. The anxiety you're feeling about scan results is completely normal and shared by many others living with DLBCL.
Scan anxiety is incredibly common Show Full Answer
How can you prepare mentally for your upcoming PET CT scan after experiencing a relapse?
First, it's wonderful that you're taking such excellent care of your physical health. The anxiety you're feeling about scan results is completely normal and shared by many others living with DLBCL.
Scan anxiety is incredibly common. Studies show that lymphoma survivors experience anxiety at nearly twice the rate of the general population (37% vs 19.1%). A MyLymphomaTeam member shared: "I get my PET scan today. I know I won't know anything today, but it's still nerve-wracking."
Here are some strategies that may help:
Acknowledge your feelings: Your fear is valid, especially having experienced one relapse. The risk of relapse is highest in the first two years, but the longer you stay in remission, the lower your chances of recurrence.
Focus on what you can control: You're already doing this brilliantly with your fitness routine, breathing exercises, and yoga. These activities can help manage stress, which is important since stress can weaken your immune system.
Stay present: Try not to jump ahead to "what if" scenarios about future treatments. You mentioned your recent chest CT went well with no symptoms—that's positive news to hold onto.
Limit information overload: If reading about treatments increases your anxiety, it's okay to step back from that research right now. Connect with others: Many members find comfort in sharing their scan anxiety. One member noted, "The best way to live with the shadow of cancer is living behind and looking forwards. Be positive and smile."
Practice your breathing techniques: The 4-8-16 breathing you're already doing is excellent for calming anxiety before and during stressful moments.
Remember, while there's no evidence that stress itself worsens lymphoma, managing anxiety can improve your overall mental and physical well-being during this time. You're doing an incredible job taking care of yourself physically—be gentle with your mind too.
March 8
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