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American Psychological Association

American Psychological Association

How to Live Well and Manage Stress While on Dialysis

How to Live Well and Manage Stress While on Dialysis

Kidney failure can cause both physical and mental stress. The American Psychological Association shares ways to live well while on dialysis.


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Going on dialysis changes your life in significant ways. The sessions are time consuming, you may have a long commute to and from the treatment center, you have to keep close track of your food and fluid intake, and both schedules—and family dynamics—can get shifted around.

It’s not unusual for these dramatic changes to bring up a whirl of emotions that can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to help you adapt to your new normal, manage this transition, and learn how to live well while on dialysis.* The American Psychological Association is here to show you how.

How to manage stress while on dialysis

  • Stay engaged: While time constraints and physical limitations may interfere with your work and hobbies, it helps to maintain your interests and routine as much as possible. Socialize. Stimulate your mind. If you can’t work, consider volunteering. People who find ways to stay productive and assimilate dialysis into their lifestyles tend to stay healthier and feel happier. 
  • Stay informed: Understanding the whys and hows of your condition and the dialysis process empowers you as a partner in your own care. Bring your questions to your healthcare team and do your own research, as well. You’re your own best advocate.
  • Stay connected: Be open and proactive about telling the people in your support network how they can best support you. They will likely be relieved and grateful to have some direction. You can also ask your doctor for help in finding a dialysis support group.
  • Stay calm: Exercise, including relaxation exercises like yoga, deep breathing, and meditation, can help release tension and elevate your mood naturally. Ask your doctor about what types of exercise are safe for you. 
  • Stay aware: Neither a health condition nor its treatment affects the body alone. Check in with your thoughts and feelings on a regular basis. If you find yourself repeating negative thoughts over and over and aren’t able to calm feelings of anxiety or sadness, seek professional help. Your mental health has a direct impact on your physical health.

When to seek help

Anger, anxiety, fear, and sadness are normal when starting dialysis. If you find them continuing unabated—or noticeably getting worse—it’s ok to ask for some extra help to process and manage your emotions.

Contact your doctor, dialysis social worker, or other trained mental health professional if you’re feeling:

  • hopeless;
  • persistently stressed or worried;
  • like you’re sleeping more or less than usual;
  • snappish and irritable;
  • less joy from your usual activities; and/or
  • a desire to do things that you know are dangerous or unhealthy.

A trained mental health professional can:

  • discuss your concerns with you and suggest resources;
  • explore treatment options, including antidepressants and non-drug therapies; and
  • provide therapy and refer you to other mental health providers as appropriate.

No one can take your dialysis treatments for you, but that doesn’t mean you’re alone. Reach out to your social and medical support network for any help you need. Dialysis doesn’t have to define you. By using the resources at your disposal, you can still live a rich and fulfilling life.

*American Psychological Association. (2019, Oct. 31). Living Well on Dialysis.

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