MANAGE YOUR STRESS

A diagnosis of chronic kidney disease (CKD) can create feelings of anxiety, disbelief or denial. The first step to managing mental health issues is to acknowledge the way you feel.

By its very nature, it’s hard to treat stress on your own. The good news is that you don’t have to do it alone. Talk to your care team. If stress is causing you problems, they can refer you to a counselor or a therapist who can help you. Here are some tips to help you manage stress and look after your health:

Get enough sleep. It’s easy to lose sleep when worries start mounting. Remember, sleep is your best defense against the physical and emotional problems that come with stress.

Follow a healthy diet. Your care team has probably already made some kidney-friendly diet recommendations. If you’re feeling low-energy, talk to your dietitian. It’s surprising just how much of a difference the right foods can make on your energy level.

Get enough exercise. Exercise helps with the symptoms of depression and anxiety by releasing endorphins. It’s also shown to help with self-esteem, which makes it even more rewarding.

Remove yourself from stressful situations. Know when to step back—either emotionally or physically—and reassess your environment and how you’re reacting to it. This might be a five-minute break at work or a walk around the block.

Create calming rituals. Whether it’s meditation, a breathing exercise, or just making a pot of tea, following a simple routine can be soothing.

Build a healthy routine. Start a schedule that includes regular times for dialysis, taking medication and prepping meals. Knowing what to do and when can help with the stress of managing your condition.

Figure out what’s most important to you. Since you’re making changes to your routine, it’s a good time to step back and make sure that you’re spending your time on the things that truly matter to you.

Source: Read the article in its entirety here - Fresenius Kidney Care