Navigating scanxiety: Finding calm during breast cancer screening and treatment

You schedule the mammogram. You show up. Then comes the waiting – for the scan, the results, the phone call. That in-between space can feel endless. Your mind starts spinning with “what ifs.”

There’s a name for that feeling: scanxiety.

It’s the anxiety that often comes before, during, or after a breast cancer screening or follow-up test. It’s normal, and you’re far from the only one who feels it. Taking it one step at a time and focusing on what can be controlled can help manage the anxiety. 

Why scanxiety happens 

Even when a mammogram is just a routine check, it can stir up strong emotions, especially if you’ve had a previous scare or know someone who has.

That reassurance matters. Mammograms are quick, usually 20 minutes or less, and discomfort is minimal for most people. Still, the thought of it, and the waiting that follows, can trigger deep anxiety.

Part of that reaction is biological. When we’re uncertain, our bodies release stress hormones like cortisol, preparing us for danger. Add in the emotional weight of words like cancer and screening, and the worry can snowball.

Many women describe the hardest part not as the test itself but the silence afterward. The wait between the scan and the results can feel like the longest stretch of all. That’s the space where “what ifs” tend to grow. 

What helps you feel more in control 

When anxiety builds, taking small, intentional steps can make a difference. Understanding what to expect before your appointment often helps replace fear with clarity. Scheduling your mammogram early in the day can shorten the waiting period. Bringing a friend or loved one for company can also be comforting.

Some people find relief through calming rituals: slow breathing, a favorite playlist on the drive, or planning something enjoyable afterward like coffee with a friend or a walk outside. These small, personal gestures can help signal to your body that you’re safe.

Remember: mammograms are one of the most powerful tools for early detection. In fact, annual mammograms can detect breast cancers at their earliest stages, long before symptoms appear. And consistent yearly screenings help catch any changes early, making treatment more effective. 

Reframing screening as self-care 

When we think of screening as something to fear, it can feel heavy. But what if you saw it differently – as an act of protection? As a way of caring for your future self?

Think of screenings as giving you the chance to take charge because you’re prioritizing your well-being. It’s an act of courage every time someone walks through the door. You’re not just showing up for a cancer screening. You’re showing up for yourself. 

Managing anxiety during treatment 

Scanxiety doesn’t always end after a screening. For many, it reappears during treatment, like when you’re waiting for test results, monitoring progress, or approaching follow-up scans. 

That’s why mental health support is such an important part of cancer care. At Intermountain Health, oncology teams include behavioral health professionals and nurse navigators who help patients manage stress throughout treatment. 

Support can look different for everyone. Some find comfort in counseling or therapy. Others rely on support groups or mindfulness practices like yoga or journaling. Even talking openly with family about fears can lighten the emotional load.  

If results lead to next steps 

If you’re called back for more imaging, try to remember that most callbacks are for small, harmless findings like overlapping tissue or unclear images. It’s a normal part of a careful, thorough screening process.

That next step doesn’t necessarily mean something bad has happened. It means your care team is being precise and proactive. If anxiety rises, write down your questions, bring someone with you, and ask your provider to clearly explain what comes next. You deserve to understand your care and to feel supported at every turn.

As Breast Cancer Awareness Month reminds us each year, making time for your annual mammogram is truly an act of self-care and courage. Encourage the women around you to do the same. The sooner breast cancers are found, the easier they are to treat, and the more peace of mind you can have moving forward. 

Finding support at Intermountain Health 

At Intermountain Health, early detection is only part of the picture. Emotional care matters too. Whether it’s your first screening or a follow-up during treatment, our caregivers are here – for you, and with you – every step of the way. 

If you’re feeling anxious about an upcoming mammogram or navigating treatment, talk with your provider about emotional support options. You can also explore free virtual guided mindfulness classes designed to support your mind and body through every phase of care.