Going to the doctor is rarely a pleasant experience for most people, so if you’re feeling a bit anxious about an upcoming doctor’s appointment, know that you’re not alone.
While extreme fear of doctors (iatrophobia) is relatively rare, it’s perfectly normal to feel nervous about seeing the doctor.
The good news is that you don’t have to suffer through your anxiety – you can make your every visit easier and more comfortable by implementing certain strategies.
And I’m here to help explain them all to you.
I’m sharing this article because I am a leading Behavioral Change Expert.
Plus I am the founder of the therapist recommended The Anxiety Cure Online Program..
I love to share research based techniques to help people to manage their anxiety and depression.
In this blog post, I will explore some of the top strategies and tips to help you feel less anxious and fearful about doctor visits.
Before you go to the doctor, take a few moments to prepare yourself and write down all your concerns and questions. It’s easy to forget things you want to ask about when you’re in the doctor’s office, especially if you’re nervous or afraid of being judged.
When making a list, consider ranking the things you wish to talk about by order of importance so you don’t leave out anything important.
We live in digital times, so many doctor’s offices now offer the option to fill out medical forms online ahead of your appointment.
I suggest taking advantage of this option if possible because it can save you time and reduce stress.
It’s simply easier and less stressful to fill out medical forms from the comfort of your home, with no rush or distractions, than it is in a busy office. It’s a simple step, but it can help you arrive at your appointment feeling more prepared and, therefore, calmer.
Picking the right doctor can make all the difference. After all, doctors are humans, too, so some are more patient and understanding than others. So, before you schedule your visit, ask around for recommendations from friends and family members.
You can also read online reviews to get a sense of what other people think. This can be particularly beneficial if you can find reviews from people with similar fears and anxieties.
Alternatively, you can consult your current healthcare provider for a referral. What you’re looking for is a doctor who will listen to you, explain things clearly, and make you feel comfortable. There are some healthcare concerns where you may feel uncomfortable visiting a doctor in person. In issues like that you can always consult with a virtual doctor to get quick help for your health concerns anywhere, anytime. An online doctor can help answer your concerns and make an in-person visit easier and less anxious for you.
Having someone you trust with you during the appointment can be a huge source of comfort. This can be your spouse, a friend, or any family member. They can hold your hand – metaphorically or literally – and provide emotional support, which can be highly beneficial when you’re feeling anxious.
This person can also help you remember better what the doctor says during your visit, which can be immensely helpful when you’re feeling overwhelmed and unable to concentrate.
Before you step into your doctor’s office, practice some tried and true relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, visualization, or meditation. For starters, take a few deep breaths into your belly by breathing in through your nose and counting from 1 to 5 (or 4 if it’s easier). Then, let it flow out through your mouth while counting from 1 to 5 (or 4) again.
Visualization can also be helpful. Simply visualize yourself remaining calm and relaxed during your visit. To relax as much as possible, try to include multiple senses during your visualization.
Finally, talk to your doctor or their staff about your anxiety. Trust us, they’ve seen it all, and having anxiety about a doctor’s appointment is fairly common.
They are also trained to work with patients who are nervous, so they should know how to help calm your fears.
When your doctor (or their staff) knows you’re anxious, they can take steps to make you feel more at ease.
Whether it’s explaining procedures in more detail or offering relaxation techniques, they’re there to help you.
Explore my therapist recommended online course: The Anxiety Cure.
Think about subscribing for free weekly tools here.
No SPAM, ever! Read the Privacy Policy for more information.
