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Does anxiety lessen throughout experience?

Page last modified on: August 18, 2008

Question from Retired: Waiting for results of tests after check-ups is awful. I feel that I can only breathe freely between check-ups. Are these feelings ever going to end? Or is having a cure the only way to get over the anxiety?: Answers —David Spiegel, Ph.D.: I would say that anxiety goes with the territory to a certain extent. I think actually often some of the worst times are sort of waiting for the results of tests, and if there are ways to get preliminary information sooner, than do it. One other thing to do is in your mind formulate a plan about what you will do if the results turn out either way. If they turn out good, go out and have a bottle of champagne and if they are not good, you will set up an appointment the next day with your oncologist.; Marisa Weiss, M.D., Breastcancer.org president and founder: Uncertainty stinks. As soon as you have some plan of action, it feels so much better.

On Wednesday, October 18, 2000, our Ask-the-Expert Online Conference was called Feelings about Breast Cancer. David Spiegel, Ph.D. and moderator Marisa Weiss, M.D. answered your questions about the emotional effects of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

The materials presented in these conferences do not necessarily reflect the views of Breastcancer.org. A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted before using any therapeutic product or regimen discussed. All readers should verify all information and data before employing any therapies described here.

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Meet the Experts

David Spiegel, Ph.D. is professor and associate chairman of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Stanford University School of Medicine.

Marisa Weiss, M.D. is a radiation oncologist specializing in breast cancer and the founder, president, and guiding force behind Breastcancer.org.

Breastcancer.org is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing information and community to those touched by this disease. Learn more about our commitment to providing complete, accurate, and private breast cancer information.

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