Mental health and kidney disease

People with kidney disease are at increased risk of depression. Around one in five have depression, and the figure is higher for people on dialysis.

When you are told you have kidney disease, you may at first be in disbelief that this is happening to you. When reality hits, you may go through a period of mourning; you might grieve for the health, abilities and life you had before being diagnosed.

Lifestyle changes can significantly impact your wellbeing as you develop a greater dependence on others. You may also become more depressed if you see your family stressed about your situation. This can make it difficult for you to open to them about your illness because you don’t want to worry them – and this can lead to a feeling of isolation.

Here are some questions that can help determine if you have depression:

• Do you struggle to get out of bed and do daily activities regularly?
• Do you feel as if you are surrounded by a black cloud?
• Do you cry regularly?
• Do you get angry easily for no reason?
• Have you stopped paying attention to how you look?
• Are you eating for comfort or refusing to eat at all?
• Do you consider harming yourself?

If you answer ‘yes’ to one or more of these questions, let a loved one or friend know how you feel and visit your doctor for advice and treatment. You may also like to download our depression and chronic kidney disease fact sheet.

• Antidepressant medications, psychotherapies or a combination of both are helpful in reducing depression among people with chronic medical conditions.
• Psychological treatments help people with depression to manage their mood, change negative patterns of thinking, and improve their coping skills.
• Most anti-depressant medication can be used safely in chronic kidney disease. Your healthcare team will work with you to find the treatment that works best for you.

Your doctor is the best starting point to seek professional medical help for depression.

There are many alternative therapies available that may complement your medical care. Please review a practitioner’s qualifications and experience – and discuss with your regular healthcare team – before you book an appointment with them. It’s very important to let them know you have kidney disease, too.

Complementary therapists include:

• chiropractors
• naturopaths
• acupuncturists
• reflexologists
• massage therapists.

If you are prescribed any alternative medications, be sure to speak to your healthcare team before you start taking them.

For many people, religious or spiritual beliefs can provide great emotional support. Practice may already be an important part of your everyday life, or something you occasionally turn to during difficult times. There are churches for all denominations in most areas, with leaders willing to help. Every hospital has visiting ministers, too. If you like, they will speak with you regardless of your religion.

If you are an Indigenous Australian, it is likely that your spiritual belief will be very important and deeply connected with country. It is important to let your doctor and healthcare team know when you need to go away because of your spiritual needs.

If you still have questions, we welcome you to call our Kidney Health Helpline on 1800 454 363. You may also wish to check out our peer support groups.

The SANE Guide to Good Mental Health for people affected by kidney disease is also available for purchase from our online store.