Though medical professionals are there to help and heal, many people are anxious about going to the doctor. Children especially may be disconcerted by strange smells, sterile rooms, and the poking and prodding. Now imagine you’re a child with cancer – facing countless injections, blood draws, unpleasant side effects, and sometimes painful procedures. Seeing the doctor becomes a bigger ordeal.

Helping kids with cancer manage medical anxiety supports their emotional well-being and improves their overall experience during treatment. Here are some of the best ways to support them:

7 Strategies to Calm Medical Anxiety for Kids with Cancer

#1 – A Safe and Supportive Environment

• Open Communication – Encourage your child to express their fears and concerns. Let them know it’s okay to be scared, and you’re there to listen! Ask if they need a hug or if there’s anything you can do to help them.

• Involve Family – Having parents and loved ones present during procedures can provide comfort. Family members can help reinforce a sense of safety and normalcy. That said, ask your child who they’re comfortable having by their side first. Too many people, even well-intentioned, can be overwhelming.

• Support from Peers – If possible, connect your child with others around the same age who are going through similar experiences. Peer support can help normalize their emotions. They might feel more comfortable expressing themselves to peers than adults.

#2 – Age-Appropriate Education

• Explain Procedures – Provide clear, age-appropriate explanations about what is happening and why. Avoid overwhelming details – these can make the situation more frightening – but don’t leave them in the dark either.

• Medical Play – Encourage “playing doctor” with dolls. This can help demystify procedures and give children a sense of control. Acting out what the doctor will do can help them know what to expect in a way a child can understand.

• Books and Videos – Use child-friendly resources that explain cancer and treatments. There are some outstanding books out there, many written by childhood cancer survivors. 

#3 – Distraction Techniques

• Games and Toys – Games, puzzles, or activities your child enjoys are a great way to get their mind off the medical. The trick is to give them something to occupy their thoughts and attention rather than letting them fall into an anxiety spiral. “Hands-on” distractions generally work better than passive activities.

• Music and Movies – Listening to music, watching cartoons, or reading during waiting times or treatments to shift focus away from the medical environment. You may also want to see if there are shows that specifically address going to the doctor. For example, Daniel Tiger (Targeted at toddlers and preschoolers) has episodes about going to the hospital for the first time and being given anesthesia for surgery.

#4 – Coping Skills Training

• Relaxation Exercises – Teach simple deep-breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, or guided imagery. These tools can help kids calm down during stressful moments.

• Mindfulness and Meditation – Short mindfulness sessions can teach children to focus on their breathing or a calming image, which can reduce anxiety. If they struggle, tell a story that guides them into their imagination.

• Positive Affirmations – Help your child use positive self-talk, reminding them of their strength and courage throughout the process.

#5 –Emotional Outlets

• Art and Creative Expression – Drawing, painting, or journaling can help kids express their feelings when they may not have the words to do so.

• Play Therapy – Trained play therapists can guide children in working through their emotions in a safe, fun environment.

#6 – Pain Management and Comfort

• Sedation or Anesthesia – If a procedure is particularly anxiety-provoking, it may be necessary to use mild sedation or anesthesia to help manage stress and pain. Ask their care time about the appropriateness and options in this area.

• Comfort Items – Allow your kid to bring a favorite toy, blanket, or stuffed animal to treatments. These can be powerful sources of comfort in stressful situations.

#7 – Empowerment and Control

• Let Them Make Choices – Make opportunities for small decisions, like choosing the color of their bandages or which toy to bring. That little bit of agency can help kids feel more in control of their situation.

• Celebration of Milestones – Celebrate treatment milestones, whether completing a round of chemo or getting through a difficult day. Pride and a feeling of progress can help kids with cancer see all they’re capable of!

These approaches, tailored to each child’s specific needs and age, can significantly reduce medical anxiety and teach emotional resilience throughout their cancer journey.