Psychological support during the waiting period for test results and diagnosis

Waiting for test results when facing the possibility of a diagnosis—regardless of the type of illness, is often accompanied by intense anxiety, which is closely tied to uncertainty and shaped by previous experiences, such as having a relative or acquaintance who has suffered from a similar condition, the personality, personal beliefs, family roles, and life stage (e.g., adolescence, parenthood, etc.)

From the moment a diagnosis indicates a serious, chronic, or terminal disease, denial may emerge as a defense mechanism, creating a psychological space for processing, “This must be a dream,” “The doctor made a mistake,” “Why me?” “What’s going to happen to me?” “I don’t understand anything,” “What did I do wrong?”, emotions like fear of the unknown, sadness, anger, or guilt may also surface, often rooted in beliefs about what was done or left undone.

At the same time, individuals and families face a flood of decisions regarding medical care, received either for themselves or for a loved one, while trying to absorb a large amount of information in a short time (type of illness, stage, treatment, side effects),  as well as end-of-life scenarios, as the ongoing decrease of health brings both tangible and symbolic losses. even when recovery is possible, receiving a major diagnosis is complex for the patient, their family, and friends.

Understanding and accepting the illness requires a process of adaptation to a new environment, routine, and family structure so that they participate in the adherence to treatment.

It’s important to take note of any questions that arise along the way, so they can be discussed during the next visit to the doctor.