I'm Obviously Dying - The Waiting Game

I’m writing this now because I’m not 100% sure I will be able to do so later in the week. I’m currently playing the waiting game with my doctor, waiting for some very important test results. Ones that will determine how I spend the rest of my week, and what little the rest of this evening now holds.

I’ve been waiting for over five hours. And that’s not an exaggeration.

When you go to a hospital you very often have to wait for your test results to come back. During that time your mind begins to race, and you often wonder about all the possible outcomes your Doctor has described (many of which have slim chances, but still). And if you’re anything like me you begin to panic. And panicking during this time is never good.

Panicking leads to Googling, which leads to more Panicking, and soon a cycle of anxiety begins. You feel helpless, left in the dark, and concerned for your wellbeing. So what do you do during this time period? How do you deal with the waiting period?

Personally I have found doing homework, reading, playing video games, texting friends, literally anything other than Googling my symptoms or counting the dots on the ER wall (if I am in the ER) helpful. Once I stop doing things my mind wonders into that dark place of “what if…” and panic mode begins. This is the best thing I can suggest, and do encourage you to follow this advice is nothing else; avoid the internet. It seems fun and harmless, but the temptation to look up how you’re obviously dying is too easy. Those results won’t come any faster, and there isn’t any point in spiking your heart rate, so try to relax and avoid those thoughts.

Try reading a book, doing a puzzle, playing a mind bender, talking with friends or family, doing work if you are able, sleeping (as rest is very important if you aren’t feeling well), or even just watch some mindless t.v. Try not to focus on those test results however. They will come as fast as they are able. (:

Waiting sucks, it really does. But try to make the best of it. We had to learn it as kids while we waited for the cakes to rise in the oven, or to unwrap the presents on our birthdays, so we can certainly learn it as adults. 

Please be aware that I am NOT a medical professional, if you have any doubts about your health please seek professional medical advise. If this is an emergency call 911 or your local emergency hotline.