Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts) Joined: Nov 2006 Posts: 2,671 | Good suggestions above, Sherry - Having something to listen to or occupy your mind with, helps you to know that you are getting closer and closer to the end of the treatment session so you are not wondering how much longer it will take. My son used meditation and deep breathing while repeating in his mind, a calming phrase. Any phrase that appeals to you will do. For example, on the inhale, you could say: "Money in large amounts" and on the exhale: "Flowing freely in my life". Before my son started the Rad Tx, they had a practice session for him where they showed him the room and explained everything that would happen and how long it would take. Do talk to your doctor about you feelings - if the anxiety is really bad, there might be something he can prescribe to calm you before your treatment.
Anne-Marie CG to son, Paul (age 33, non-smoker) SCC Stage 2, Surgery 9/21/06, 1/6 tongue Rt.side removed, +48 lymph nodes neck. IMRTx28 completed 12/19/06. CT scan 7/8/10 Cancer-free! ("spot" on lung from scar tissue related to Pneumonia.)
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