End stage renal disease: Fight or flight?

ABSTRACT

Dialysis is one of the treatment options for ESRD. Several investigators have estimated that depression occurs in about 20 to 30 percent of dialysis patients. The treatment of End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) successfully prolongs the survival of patients with kidney disease but requires that ESRD patients cope with frequent deleterious changes in their health and life situation and shortened survival. Several studies on coping up mechanisms of ESRD patients were collected and reviewed. Self-management of everyday life entailed achieving/maintaining "normalcy" in everyday roles and functioning. Meaning in life is an important motivator in the coping process. Understanding their own needs and accepting support from members of his family and health care community can help them have a quality life.