Did you know that over 800 million people worldwide are living with kidney disease, a condition that not only affects the body but also profoundly impacts mental health and overall quality of life?
Kidney disease is a chronic condition that impacts over 800 million people globally, and its effects stretch far beyond the physical symptoms. While the medical challenges of managing kidney disease, such as dialysis and treatment regimens, are well-known, the mental health struggles that accompany the illness are often overlooked. Patients face an ongoing battle with feelings of depression, anxiety, and isolation, which can compound the challenges of the disease. However, it is crucial to recognize that these mental health challenges are as valid and important as the physical symptoms, and seeking help can lead to better management of both.
Mental Health Challenges
The emotional toll of living with kidney disease can lead to feelings of helplessness, a lack of control, and a constant worry about the future. Patients may find themselves in a cycle of anxiety, where their health, finances, and relationships are constantly on their minds, contributing to social withdrawal, isolation, and feelings of powerlessness.
Causes of Mental Health Issues
Research has shown that up to 40% of individuals with kidney disease experience depression. The chronic stress from frequent medical appointments, ongoing dialysis, and the financial strain of treatment can all contribute to a mental health decline. Moreover, losing a sense of normalcy and independence can deepen feelings of anxiety and depression.
The Patient’s Story
“Jane (Name Changed), a 45-year-old mother of two, has been undergoing dialysis for the past three years. Despite her best efforts, she has struggled with depression, feeling disconnected from her family and unable to pursue her hobbies. ‘It’s like my life is on hold. I feel stuck in a cycle of appointments and exhaustion,’ she says. For Jane, getting the right mental health support was just as crucial as managing her kidney disease.”
“Sam (Name Changed) I’m a BODA- BODA driver whose kidneys have failed, I can’t afford the treatment and sometimes after dialysis can’t even drive my bike to reach home after completing my dialysis session. I live on my daily earning, which means the I dialyze I can’t work and can’t make money to take home. It’s a real pain to see myself going home without anything in your pocket. The help I get from the dialysis center or my friends comes handy, however it’s not sustainable”
Major Mental Health Issues
Most common observations that kidney disease patients report regarding their mental health.
Depression: Many kidney patients slip into depression, with low moods and lower interest in social activities. An erratic appetite can lead to dangerous fluctuations in weight and make their already delicate health more fragile. In addition, patients report having trouble sleeping and feeling a lack of energy for daily activities.
Social Anxiety: Even those who may not be dealing with a serious condition like kidney disease often worry about what people think about us. With the feelings of powerlessness and dependence on someone else that often come with kidney disease, it is natural to feel social anxiety. Unfortunately, such fears only bolster a loss of interest in social activities due to depression
Panic Attacks: Panic attacks are caused by various reasons but result in extreme fear, an increased heart rate, and difficulty breathing.
What Causes Mental Issues
There are numerous stresses that arise for kidney disease patients, both material and emotional. Here is a list of some factors that lead to depression.
Finance: Dialysis, an essential part of kidney disease treatment, can be financially taxing for many. Excessive worry about the expense and the family’s financial future may lead to undesirable mental conditions, including depression.
Dialysis can be time-consuming: Kidney diseases demand many lifestyle changes. Frequent dialysis is one such change they have to make way for. The process of dialysis is time-consuming. Constantly having to think about illness and being dependent on family members for dialysis treatment can cause significant amounts of stress.
Employment, or the lack of it: Many lose employment due to the restrictions placed by living with kidney disease. Aside from the exacerbation of the financial worries stated above, the loss of employment also results in major lifestyle changes. This can be a significant stressor.
Less sleep: A direct consequence of the physiological changes due to kidney disease is difficulty sleeping. This is a major cause of stress, as the body cannot effectively care for itself.
Solutions to Mental Health Issues
In addition to seeking professional support, kidney disease patients can benefit from mindfulness practices, cognitive-behavioral techniques, and support groups. Apps like Headspace for guided meditation or Better Help for virtual therapy are great tools to help patients manage stress and depression.
While kidney disease can feel overwhelming, addressing both the physical and mental health aspects is key to improving overall well-being. It’s essential to remember that mental health challenges are not a sign of weakness—seeking help is a proactive step toward recovery. At Nephromed Medical Centre, you’re not just treated for kidney disease but cared for as a whole person. Don’t let the mental health challenges go unnoticed—take that first step toward feeling better today.
First, it is necessary to acknowledge the genuine importance of mental health. Remember that what you feel is valid, but that does not mean you have to live with that feeling. It is the key to managing such challenges effectively. A mental health professional is the person you need to recover your mental and emotional health effectively.
There is no shame in getting support. Prioritize your health and worry about society later.
A great mental health team, especially for people struggling with kidney disease, can be found at Nephromed Medical Center. We have extensive experience in managing kidney treatment and the corresponding mental health facilities that may be required. Some of the best-trained and skilled nephrologists in Nairobi, Kenya, are available at the centre. They carry out dialysis in Nairobi and offer world-class facilities and counselling services.
Do not ignore the mental health challenges that you may face. Nephromed aims for the overall well-being of the patients.