Afraid of going for hospital appointments H

[ArtyAnne]

Have to go for two hospital visits on same day. One for mammogram for my 3 yr cancer check other to eye unit for eye examination after eye op it's the waiting in crowded clinics that frightens me I'm scared will have panic attack or not be able to sit and wait long time.

[Hidden]

Same thing happened to me at a opticians appt. Was waiting for 30 mins and started to panic. No option but to leave. Feel really bad about it now.

[Pat9]

I am the same, I now try breathing and trying to keep calm, why not buy a self help book and have it on a kindle that way you can read the powerful calming words and they will help you not to panic, awful feelings these have battled with them all my life good luck xx

[ArtyAnne in reply to Pat9]

Thank you for replying. I have been having some Hypnopherapy and the breathing exercises have helped a lot. It's the waiting in crowded clinic that's the worst and negative thoughts before hand. My therapist suggested thinking how lucky we are to have check ups and focus on what's going on around me for distraction.Friends can't understand how can be so worried when it's two weeks away but that's just the way I am.

[Agora1]

Hi ArtyAnne, I can understand the waiting room anxiety. I never go anywhere without my old time cassette player with my meditation and relaxation tapes. As soon as I get settled, I immediately put in the earbuds and tune out the world. I listen carefully to the words on the tape and deep breathe and sometimes close my eyes. It puts me into another zone. That's also my partner in crime when I'm in the dentist's chair as well. Two visits in one day is hard for me to do too. Good Luck on your exams. Hope you do well.

[ArtyAnne]

Thanks Agora1Deep breathing does help and I'm sure your tapes do. I try closing my eyes and imagine I'm by the sea or in a peaceful place but still get thumping heart and shakey tummy. Keep telling myself they are there to help but worry I will have panic attack in front of everyone.

Thanks for your good wishes Anne