I Need Help with My Kidney Disease: Steps to Find Support

Getting a kidney disease diagnosis can feel overwhelming. You may feel scared, uncertain, or simply unsure where to start. But you are not alone—there is help and support available for you.

Read More: Choosing Life: Finding New Purpose After End-Stage Kidney Disease Diagnosis

Knowing what type of kidney disease you have is key. Is it temporary or chronic? Do you need immediate treatment? Talk to your doctor and don’t be afraid to ask questions.

1. Family and Friends

Emotional support is essential when dealing with any chronic illness, and kidney disease is no exception.

• Emotional Support: Talking to someone you trust, feeling heard, and knowing you’re not alone can help you get through tough times.
• Practical Help: They can go with you to medical appointments, help with transportation, remind you to take your medications, or just be there when you need them.
• Motivation to Stay Healthy: Sometimes, having someone who encourages you to eat well, exercise, or stick to your treatment can make a big difference. Your close circle can become a powerful support network if you let them in.

2. Doctors and Specialists

Having a trusted medical team is key to managing kidney disease effectively.

• Primary Care Physician: Oversees your general health and refers you to the right specialists.
• Nephrologist: A kidney specialist who evaluates your kidney function, monitors the disease’s progression, and develops your treatment plan.
• Renal Dietitian: Diet plays a major role in controlling kidney disease. This specialist helps you understand what to eat, what to avoid, and how to adjust your diet to your specific needs.

A well-coordinated medical team can help you manage the disease and improve your quality of life.

Learn more about your kidney healthcare team.

3. Trusted Organizations

There are organizations dedicated to offering support, education, and resources for people living with kidney disease.

• National Kidney Foundation (NKF): Offers practical guides, educational workshops, support groups, and financial aid programs for patients and families.
• Other local or international organizations also provide informational materials, free counseling, and access to services you may not know about.

Reaching out to these organizations can provide valuable tools to help you make informed decisions about your health.

There are clinics and centers specialized in kidney disease. You can search online using phrases like “kidney clinics near me” or ask your doctor for recommendations.

Living with a chronic illness can lead to anxiety or depression. Seek out support groups or therapy if you need it. Talking to others who are going through the same thing can help you feel understood.

Learn more about managing your mental health.

With proper treatment, a healthy diet, and the right support, you can live a fulfilling life. Most importantly, don’t be afraid to ask for help. NKF is here to support you.

• NKF CARES: Speak with a trained specialist for free by calling 855.NKF.CARES (855.653.2273) or emailing nkfcares@kidney.org.
• Kidney Learning Center: Find free online courses about kidney health, dialysis, transplants, and more.
• NKF Peers: Connect with a trained mentor who has lived with kidney disease and can share their experience.
• NKF Communities: Join to connect, learn, and share with others about kidney disease.

Remember: nearly 90% of people with kidney disease—9 out of 10 adults—don’t know they have it. That’s why the best way to avoid an unexpected diagnosis is to know your risks and get regular medical checkups.

Read Managing Kidney Disease at Every Stage: Questions to Ask Your Doctor