It’s Okay to Feel Overwhelmed – You’re Not Alone
Facing a life-changing illness can bring up a mix of emotions – and it’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed, anxious, or uncertain.
Don’t Hesitate to Reach Out for Support
There’s no shame in expressing how you feel. If you’re struggling, we’re here to listen and support you every step of the way.
You don’t have to go through this alone.
There are many resources and people ready to help you find the support you need.
Please take the time to watch this short video where Sue Lyon (previous renal patient) talks about how she managed her condition.
10 Steps For Coping With A Chronic Ilness (1)
💊 Get a Prescription for Knowledge
Understanding your condition is one of the best tools you have. Start by asking your doctor or nurse questions — no matter how small they seem. If you’re curious to learn more, ask them to point you toward reliable online resources. The more informed you are, the more confident and in control you'll feel.
🤝 Be an Active Partner in Your Care
Your doctor is there to help, but you’re the one living in your body every day. Take charge by tracking your symptoms, knowing your numbers (like blood pressure), and noticing any changes. This kind of home monitoring can catch problems early — before they become serious.
👥 Build Your Support Team
Healthcare is a team effort. Nurses, dietitians, pharmacists, and physical therapists all bring valuable expertise. For quitting smoking or starting an exercise plan, a nurse may be your best ally. For diet and nutrition? A registered dietitian can tailor a plan that works for your kidneys and lifestyle.
🔗 Connect the Dots – Coordinate Your Care
With chronic conditions like kidney disease, you might be seeing multiple specialists. Unfortunately, they don’t always communicate with one another. That’s where a primary care doctor comes in — someone who can help piece everything together to ensure your treatment plan works as a whole.
🧠 Invest in You – Small Changes, Big Results
Lifestyle changes may not be easy, but they matter. Quitting smoking, eating well, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy weight all help manage kidney disease and improve quality of life. The effort pays off — often with more energy, fewer symptoms, and better long-term outcomes.
🏡 Don’t Go It Alone – Make It a Family Thing
Healthy habits aren’t just for you — they’re good for everyone. Whether it’s eating more vegetables, exercising more, or reducing salt, involve your family or friends. It’s easier (and more fun) when you’re making changes together.
💊 Stay on Top of Your Medications
Managing multiple medications can be overwhelming. Learn what each drug is for, when and how to take it, and what side effects to watch for. If you’re unsure, talk to your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist — they’re there to help.
☁️ Watch for Signs of Depression
Chronic illness can take a toll on your mental health. If you're feeling hopeless, unmotivated, or unusually tired, it might be more than just "a bad day." Depression is common — and treatable. Please speak with your healthcare provider if you notice these signs.
🗣️ Connect with Others Who Understand
Sometimes, the best advice comes from people who’ve been there. Support groups (in person or online) can offer real-life insights, emotional support, and tips for managing daily life with kidney disease.
📄 Plan Ahead – It’s Okay to Talk About It
If living with a chronic condition has you thinking about the future, it's okay to have conversations about end-of-life care. Whether you want every possible treatment or prefer comfort-focused care, making your wishes known can give you peace of mind — and guide your loved ones if the time comes.
Mindfulness
🧘♀️ Mindfulness: A Simple Practice with Powerful Benefits
There’s growing evidence that mindfulness — the practice of being present and fully engaged in the moment — can have a positive impact on both your physical and emotional health.
🌿 What the Research Says (2):
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Stronger immune system: Mindfulness-based meditation has been linked to reduced levels of inflammation in the body.
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Better emotional well-being: Regular practice can help reduce stress and improve overall mental health.
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Long-term pain relief: Some studies show that people who meditate regularly experience less pain — with effects lasting up to a year.
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Improved sleep: Mindfulness can help calm the mind, leading to better sleep quality and deeper rest.
Whether you're new to mindfulness or looking to deepen your practice, it’s a powerful tool to support your health journey.
👉 Click the links below to explore mindfulness and meditation further.
