Question:
I have an MRI coming up next week. I feel scared, nervous and anxious every time one comes up, and I feel like I take out my feelings on those closest around me. Is this normal? What can I do to stop feeling like this?

Answer:
Feeling anxious about your upcoming MRI is very normal. It’s ok to feel scared about what the MRI might reveal or what it could mean for you and your loved ones. But beyond the results of what an MRI may hold, many people feel anxious about the MRI for the obvious reason that it is not the most pleasant of experiences. An MRI machine is loud, clanky, and an enclosed space where you lie still. Not exactly a trip to the spa, is it?

So what can you do to reduce some of the anxiety? To figure out what will be most helpful, it’s important to recognize what aspect of the upcoming MRI is particularly bothersome. Are uncomfortable in small spaces? Does the MRI bring back feelings of when you were first diagnosed? Once you put your finger on it, you can take steps to reduce the intensity of some of these feelings and focus on what you can control during the MRI.

Here are some techniques:

• Take a friend or loved one with you to the appointment for some moral support. Ask this person to stay with you and hold on to your feet so that you know you have someone there for you if you need anything.

• Wear comfortable clothes and bring a warm blanket! Some patients find that their MRI experience is a little more pleasant when they are wearing comfortable clothes like fuzzy pajamas, or have a light blanket with them if they know they get cold while in the MRI. Having the blanket as a means of a barrier between you and the MRI machine may also be comforting.

• Bring ear plugs or headphones to reduce the noise. Sometimes the MRI technician may provide some “sound-reducing” equipment for you – Ask!

• Take a mini-vacation! Many patients find it helpful to visualize something positive and soothing while in the MRI. (If you need ideas, keep an eye out for this Friday’s post)!

• Meditation, deep breathing or Yoga techniques can also be beneficial in preparing you for your MRI. Focusing on slow, deep breaths help calm anxious feelings.

• If you find that you have severe symptoms of claustrophobia or anxiety, medication may help. Speak with your Doctor prior to your MRI appointment so that you can be prescribed the medication beforehand.

• Seek support. Reaching out to friends and family to talk about what you are feeling may help alleviate some fears and help them to understand your experience. Online communities such as my.braintumorcommunity.org may also help you connect with others experiencing similar situations and allow you to broaden your cheering section.

What positive things can you incorporate into your MRI days? Can you take a walk around the park, visit a museum, or have lunch outdoors on a sunny day? Incorporating “feel good” activities into your day can start to develop into positive MRI traditions.

What traditions or positive things do you incorporate on MRI days? What have you found helpful?


Tamar Sekayan, MSW
Assistant Director of Patient Services