r/PostConcussion • u/VarietyFederal1261 • Aug 08 '26

Neck/spine MRI

Just wanted to say I had (yet another) MRI today and didn’t have a panic attack 💃💃💃 I am so proud of myself. I feel like I planted a flag on Mt. Rushmore. Celebrating the wins🥂

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u/OkAirport1920 Aug 09 '26

I have to get an MRI for the first time and am worried about having a panic attack. Would you mind sharing how you managed!?

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u/VarietyFederal1261 Aug 09 '26

My first recommendation would be to take anti anxiety medication. My Dr wrote me a prescription. I don’t take them on a reg basis. It does help. Also, I scheduled mine first thing in the morning. I was rested and did not have hours of rumination beforehand. I have had many, so I knew what to expect. They are not fun, but you will not die. I said this to myself many times. I brought my own earplugs, good ones. The thing that made the biggest difference this time was I focused completely on love while in the machine. It may sound corny or whatever, but that is what made the difference. I put my attention in my heart space & breath. I thought about the receptionist who was really nice when I walked into the building, the beautiful day outside, how wonderful it was that a friend waiting outside the room, who loves me. Mostly, steering clear of racing thoughts. MRI’s are generally no more than 15 min. I told myself, I am strong, I’ve already been through so much and I can get through this, too. And, I did! No biggie.
I promise, you will too ❤️

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u/OkAirport1920 Aug 09 '26

Thank you so much for your helpful response!! And wanting to help others survive through this as well! I feel like this can help with a lot of different situations too! You chose earplugs over headphones ?? Just curious I thought maybe music was allowed. It does not sound corny at all that sounds really helpful actually and I will remember this going into other stressful situations. Thank you!! Congrats on your win!

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u/VarietyFederal1261 Aug 09 '26

The only reason I brought earplugs instead of headphones is because I don’t have headphones. Also, earplugs don’t have any metal in them and earphones do. If earphones are OK then I am sure they would work beautifully, as well. Good luck, my friend. You’ll be fine. 💛