05/08/2026
About 1 in 5 patients on dialysis experience depression, but the emotional toll of kidney disease sometimes goes unspoken. May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and the National Kidney Foundation has practical, science-backed steps patients can take to help feel better, from connecting with peers to mindfulness practices to ease anxiety.
If you have been feeling persistently sad or detached for more than a couple of weeks, reach out to your care team. Support is always available.
Read NKF's full guide, Your Mind Matters:
Caring for your mind is just as important as caring for your kidneys. This Mental Health Month, learn why mental health matters in CKD and free science-backed strategies you can start today.