Living with dialysis requires more than just managing one’s physical health; it encompasses mental, emotional, and social well-being, too. Although dialysis guests focus strongly on physical well-being, prioritizing self-care is equally necessary.
Here are some useful self-care tips for dialysis guests that are beyond health-related aspects and can improve one’s overall quality of life:
Emotional wellbeing:
Dialysis can be emotionally draining and exhausting. Therefore, social interactions such as joining support groups provide a sense of understanding and belonging. Sharing experiences with others who have experienced or are going through similar challenges can be very empowering, whether in person or online. Group mental exercises and mindful practices such as reading, meditation, and breathing exercises are really helpful in managing stress and anxiety as well.
Social Connections:
Social relationships are crucial to mental well-being. Regular social interactions with family and close friends, through phone calls, video chats, or in-person visits, can alleviate feelings of isolation and provide mental and emotional support. One can also participate in dialysis-friendly social activities such as joining a book club, attending a local event, or simply having a coffee with a friend. These interactions uplift one’s mood and spirit.
Hobbies and interests:
Hobbies are a great way to discover one’s self-interest. They allow one to enjoy life and reduce stress. Activities like reading, gardening, painting, or knitting can be both relaxing and fulfilling. Exploring creative outlets such as participating in writing or drawing competitions, engaging in these activities independently, or playing a musical instrument can provide a sense of accomplishment and help express emotions.
Personal development:
There is always an opportunity to learn something new in life. This is a great way to keep the mind active and engaged. Online courses, tutorials, or even educational podcasts can help develop new skills or increase knowledge. Setting achievable short-term or long-term goals provides motivation. For example, you could learn a new language, start a small project, or plan a trip. With NephroPlus, you can even receive dialysis services while traveling to different destinations! To learn more, click here
Planning and organizing:
Organizing is another form of self-care because it makes one’s life easier, reduces stress, and makes daily activities easy and manageable. For example, keeping necessary medical supplies easily accessible, organizing medicines, planning outings and sessions, and keeping living spaces clutter-free gives one a sense of accomplishment and can also be relaxing. Planning ahead can also ease the burden of work and help balance treatment with daily life.
Therapy and counseling:
Living with kidney disease and going through dialysis itself can be overwhelming. Writing down thoughts and feelings can be a therapeutic way to process emotions. Additionally, professional counseling can be incredibly helpful. Professional therapists can provide coping strategies and emotional support tailored to individual needs. Catering to one’s emotions through journaling or professional help allows one to shift perspective, understand their feelings, and work toward being happier and mentally healthier.
Physical Environment:
Home is everyone’s primary environment. Therefore, ensuring it is comfortable for relaxation and recovery is important. One can make a few adjustments to spaces with soft lighting, indoor plants, arranging furniture, and clear access points to enhance overall well-being. This helps in easier movement and even in setting up a home dialysis area if needed.
In conclusion, self-care is always a key topic when we think about our well-being. However, for those living with chronic illness, it becomes even more essential. Enhancing emotional and mental health through maintaining social connections and engaging in fulfilling activities brings joy and helps one feel more connected with oneself. Remember, kidney disease is just one aspect of life, not the whole of it. By learning to engage in activities that boost the overall quality of life and prioritizing oneself, individuals on dialysis can find joy and fulfilment every day.