New guide for depressed kidney patients

[okarol]

New guide for depressed kidney patients

November 16, 2007 - 11:55AM

Half of all kidney disease sufferers are also affected by depression, according to health groups who have released a guide for those living with both conditions.

National mental health charity SANE Australia and Kidney Health Australia has launched a help book specifically designed to help people with the disease cope with depression.

One third of people with a chronic illness like kidney disease rate their quality of life as fair or poor, and 61 per cent experience depression, according to recent studies.

Kidney Health Australia chief executive Anne Wilson said many people had their world turned upside down when they were diagnosed with chronic kidney disease (CKD).

"People can be placed under extreme emotional pressure in trying to cope with CKD, which in many instances triggers the loss of a job or a breakdown in relationships," Ms Wilson said.

SANE Australia executive director Barbara Hocking said the guide would help people find ways to maintain good mental health when dealing with kidney disease.

"Having kidney disease affects many areas of someone's life, so it's not surprising that can mean an increased vulnerability to depression and anxiety," Ms Hocking said.

"We know treating depression and anxiety helps people gain better control over their underlying kidney disease.

The guide, available from Kidney Health Australia, looks at mental health problems, treatment options and includes case studies of people who have experienced CKD first hand.

http://www.theage.com.au/news/National/New-guide-for-depressed-kidney-patients/2007/11/16/1194766923575.html