Anxiety is a feeling that everyone experiences at times, but the intensity can be different from person to person and vary according to the situation. The intensity can be mild, moderate or severe. 

Symptoms of Anxiety 

• Excessive worry about several events or activities 
• Muscle tension 
• Sleep changes (being unable to sleep or sleeping more than usual) 
• Restlessness 
• Physical symptoms such as a rapid heartbeat, sweating, palpitations, trembling, shortness of breath, chest tightness, nausea, diarrhea, flushed skin, dizziness or high blood pressure 
• Exhaustion 
• Difficulty concentrating 
• Irritability 

Ways to Relieve Symptoms of Anxiety 

• Speak to an oncology Social Worker at the Cancer Center. An oncology Social Worker is trained to help you identify ways of dealing with anxiety. 
• Use relaxation techniques (included in this book). 
• Do not use alcohol or drugs that were not prescribed for you. 
• Follow your treatment plan and take medications as prescribed. 

Ask any questions you may have about your treatment and diagnosis. Any member of the Cancer Center team will be willing to answer your questions or refer you to the person who can answer them. Having this information on your specific care can help you know what lies ahead. 

Once you have started treatment, keep a diary or journal of how you are feeling.

The most important thing to remember is that you are not alone. Support is available and a referral can be made to a trained provider if needed.