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<\/figure>\nStress is being caused by patients due to increased NHS times.<\/p>\n
Whether it\u2019s for a persistent cough, an aching back, or a cervical screening, medical appointments are an unescapable and essential part of our lives. <\/p>\n
But as the waiting list for hospital treatment continues to rise to record levels (7.2 million<\/a>\u00a0in January 2023), your next check-up may take a while.<\/p>\n Not knowing how long you must wait for a doctor\u2019s visit can affect your mood and mental health.<\/p>\n It has been found that\u00a0almost four in ten Britons<\/a>\u00a0have felt stressed or anxious due to issues experienced with the NHS waiting times.<\/p>\n Precisely, awaiting a GP or hospital appointment without a confirmed date in your diary affects the mental wellbeing of 30% and 23% of patients, respectively.<\/p>\n So what can you do to mitigate your sentiments of stress? <\/p>\n Here, with some insights from Richard Holmes, Director of Wellbeing at\u00a0Westfield Health<\/a>, we look at simple ways to manage your mental health as you\u2019re added to the waiting list.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n Plan ahead<\/strong><\/p>\n Planning is one of the first things you can do to keep your stress and anxiety at bay.<\/p>\n You may still not know the exact time and date of your appointment, but you\u2019re likely to see where the visit will occur. Generally, this will be either at your local hospital or GP practice.<\/p>\n Also, think about what you need to bring, such as a list of your current medications, test results and notes with any questions you may have.<\/p>\n By doing so, you\u2019ll feel more comfortable, prepared and in control of the situation. Once you receive more information about the exact date, all you\u2019ll need to do is show up.<\/p>\n Redirect your focus<\/strong><\/p>\n Waiting can cause a sense of unease<\/a>\u00a0as it merges two uncomfortable situations: not knowing what\u2019s on its way and being unable to do something about it.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re unsure when you will get your appointment and it\u2019s worrying you, try concentrating on other important aspects of your life. <\/p>\n Holmes from Westfield Health, experts in\u00a0health cash plans<\/a>, says that redirecting your focus can help you distract from whatever is causing you anxiety.<\/p>\n \u201cFocusing on other things that mean a lot to you can ease your stress,\u201d he explains. \u201cIf socialising makes you feel good, get in touch with friends and family. <\/p>\n You could focus on your favourite hobby, such as a dance or cooking class, whatever you enjoy doing most.<\/p>\n \u201cAlternatively, to relieve your stress you could focus on your breathing. Slow, deep breathing is a simple technique that can help\u00a0alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety<\/a>\u00a0as it minimises the level of stress hormones in the body.\u201d<\/p>\n Eat well and exercise<\/strong>.<\/p>\n When feeling worried and blue, it\u2019s easy to fall into routines of eating unhealthy food. However, one of the best ways to mitigate the effects of stress is to\u00a0follow a balanced diet<\/a>\u00a0that includes natural foods and a mix of fruit and vegetables.<\/p>\n A healthy menu can help your body manage the physiological changes triggered by anxiety and regulate stress-inducing sugar levels.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re anxiously waiting for the date of your medical appointment, make sure to get out and about if you can. <\/p>\n Physical activity releases cortisol, a feel-good hormone that\u00a0helps you keep stress at bay.<\/p>\n Not only that but exercising allows your brain to focus on something else, which is an excellent coping method to overcome challenging times.<\/p>\n Seek additional help<\/strong><\/p>\n If a medical examination that has not been scheduled yet keeps you awake at night, don\u2019t be afraid or feel embarrassed to ask for professional help.\u00a0<\/p>\n There are many organisations, and If you have already been diagnosed with a specific condition and are waiting for a follow-up appointment, you can also contact more particular charities.\u00a0<\/p>\n They will give you expert guidance on dealing with your health problem and anticipate what your hospital appointment will likely entail, including\u00a0Mind<\/a>\u00a0and\u00a0Anxiety UK<\/a>, who are happy to offer plenty of free tips, advice, and information on managing your feelings of stress.<\/p>\n Letting your GP know about your anxiety is also a good idea, significantly if this sense of unease impacts your ability to carry out your daily tasks. This way, your doctor can provide the proper support for your needs.<\/p>\n There are several reasons why NHS waiting times are at a record. As much as we appreciate the efforts of doctors and nurses to keep things running, being put on a waiting list for weeks or months can be frustrating for patients.<\/p>\n If this is causing you stress and anxiety, follow some of our handy tips, from planning and redirecting your focus to seeking additional support and sticking to a healthy diet.<\/p>\nRelated<\/em><\/h3>\n<\/p><\/div>\n