Behavioral Health
Behavioral health issues are highly prevalent among patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), with depression and anxiety being the most commonly reported conditions. Studies indicate that up to 30–50% of individuals with ESRD experience significant psychological distress, often related to the chronic nature of the illness, the demands of dialysis, and the associated lifestyle changes. These mental health challenges can negatively impact treatment adherence, quality of life, and overall health outcomes, highlighting the critical need for integrated behavioral health support in this patient population.
Webinars
Perspectives: Treating Depression in Dialysis Patients Webinar (January 5, 2023)
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Webinar Slide Deck (including resources)
Building Resilience: Strategies for Managing Mental Health and Kidney Disease
Reduce stigma of mental illness by:
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Talking openly about mental health
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Educate yourself & others
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Share personal stories of mental illness
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Be conscious of language
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Don't use hurtful or derogatory language
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Show compassion for people with mental illness
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Speak out about stigma
The following resources will help dialysis facility staff gain a better understanding of mental illness.
Linked Resources
Male Depression: Understanding the Issues
Minority Mental Health- Mike Veny's Story...His Way
Mental Health: Overcoming the Stigma of Mental Illness
Comprehensive Overview of Mental Health Disorders
National Institute of Mental Health: Men and Depression (English / Spanish)
Patient Education: Mental Health (English / Spanish)
Understanding Depression in Kidney Disease
Common Warning Signs of Mental Illness
Working with African American Patients
Working with Appalachian Patients
Working with Latino/a Patients
Working with Asian American Patients
Working with Indigenous/Native American Patients
Working with Refugee and Forced Displacement Patients