By Kristie Lovelace, MSW, LCSW
Physical and mental health go hand in hand and can be hard to balance. With the added pressures of dialysis, it can become difficult to manage both physical and mental health. As a dialysis patient, sometimes physical health is the main focus and mental health may not be a priority. Check out the following mental health tips and bring your health back into balance.
BE KIND TO YOURSELF
Being on dialysis often comes with a roller-coaster of emotions and can be a huge life change for many people. There may be times when physical, social and mental worlds collide and things may feel overwhelming. Give yourself grace and remember that it is okay to not feel okay.
FOLLOW YOUR TREATMENT PLAN
Sometimes if a person does not get the dialysis they need, medical symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain and fatigue can lead to feelings of anxiety and depression. Coming to and staying for your prescribed treatment time is a huge factor in making sure toxins and fluid are removed from your body and helps lower the physical burden on your mental health.
GET OUTSIDE
Studies have shown that being in nature can greatly reduce mental distress. Soaking in the sunlight can also release serotonin and Vitamin D, which naturally boost your mood and lessen stress. Whether it is to exercise or just take some deep breaths, going outside or being in nature at least 10 to 30 minutes a day can improve your mental health.
BE ACTIVE
Exercise can boost your mental health and does not have to be vigorous to be effective. Depending on your specific abilities and the recommendation of your doctor, being active often looks different for everyone. Some examples are walking around the block or to the mailbox and back, doing a seated workout, stretching or practicing yoga or Pilates.
SPEAK UP
Dialysis can be a big adjustment, so do not hesitate to let someone know if you are experiencing feelings of anxiety, depression or any other emotion that may not feel right or is overwhelming. It is okay to speak up and let your dialysis care team, primary doctor or family/support system know how you are feeling. By speaking up, you can express what your feelings, get linked to resources, speak to a professional or take medication if needed.
REACH OUT
Individuals on dialysis may also want to reach out to psychological, social and spiritual support people. Having support systems can reduce medical stress, help individuals cope and improve quality of life for those on dialysis. If there are not local peer support groups nearby, you may be able to find dialysis support groups online.
PRACTICE SELF-CARE
Practicing self-care can improve your mental health and overall wellbeing. Self-care does not just include taking care of your physical health (attending dialysis, taking medications as prescribed, eating well, etc.), it is taking care of your whole self. Some examples may include listening to your favorite music, doing crafts, spending time with family, praying, meditating, swinging on a porch swing, or doing something you enjoy like reading or calling a friend. Do something that makes your heart sing.
Sources:
The Outdoors and Nature | Mental Health America (mhanational.org)
Mental Health and Kidney Disease: How to Cope and More (healthline.com)
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