Coping with the Emotional Impact of a CKD Diagnosis
Last updated: December 2023
How ya’ll doing? I consider myself a man’s man. Nothing can move or shake me, so I thought.
When I was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease (CKD), it was a shock to my system. The diagnosis triggered a range of emotions. These included fear, anger, sadness, and anxiety. Coping with the emotional impact of CKD can be challenging. But it's important to find healthy ways to manage your feelings.
Being kind to myself
Personally, when I was diagnosed with CKD, I was overwhelmed with emotions. I was scared about what my future would hold. Frustrated that my body had let me down, and anxious about how my loved ones would react. I felt like I was on an emotional rollercoaster, and it was hard to find balance.
Featured Forum
View all responsesOne of the most important things I learned was to be kind to myself. It was okay for me to feel a range of emotions, and it's important to acknowledge them. I found that writing things down helped me process my thoughts and feelings. It was a good way to vent my frustrations.
I looked forward to seeking support from our loved ones, friends, or even a professional therapist. Support can come in many forms. From someone to talk to when you need to vent, to someone who can provide guidance. These people can help you with your emotions. I vent my emotions to my close friends, who listen to me, motivate me when I am down or even scold me when I badly need one.
Focusing on things I could control
Another thing that helped me cope with the emotional impact of CKD was to focus on the things I could control. I couldn't control my diagnosis, but I could control how I responded to it. I made a conscious effort to stay positive. Find joy in everyday moments, like spending time with my family, reading a good book, or taking a walk outside.
One of the biggest challenges of coping with the emotional impact of CKD is dealing with the uncertainty that comes with the disease. It's hard not knowing what the future holds. It's important to focus on the present moment and celebrate small victories along the way.
Whether it's hitting a new milestone in your treatment or simply making it through a tough day, it's important to recognize and celebrate your accomplishments.
You are not alone
Finally, it's important to remember that you're not alone. There are many others who are going through a similar experience. There are support groups and resources available to help you cope. Don't be afraid to reach out for help when you need it.
Coping with the emotional impact of a CKD diagnosis can be a difficult journey. But it's important to remember that it's okay to feel a range of emotions. Be kind to yourself, and seek support from loved ones or professionals. Focus on the things you can control, celebrate small victories, and remember that you're not alone. With time and patience, you can learn to manage your emotions and find joy in everyday moments.
This or That
In addition to chronic kidney disease, do you also live with diabetes?
Join the conversation