World Kidney Day 2025 is about to strike the calendar. This day reminds us of the faster-spreading and rising global health concern – kidney diseases. Hundreds and thousands of individuals are diagnosed with kidney disorders every year. As the physical symptoms are seen, the negative impact on mental health is often overlooked.
In this guide, we will explore important aspects of kidney disease and its impact on mental health.
Understanding Kidney Disease
Kidney disease is characterized by the organ’s inability to filter waste from the blood effectively. Also referred to as Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), this is a rising concern. If ignored or left untreated time-being, it can cause major health complications (including failure of kidneys). Later, the requirement of dialysis or a transplant could be required. The progression of kidney disorders can negatively affect all aspects of life.
Did you know? CKD is often related to diabetes, hypertension & heart failure.
The Mental Health Burden of Kidney Disease
Besides affecting physical well-being, kidney disease deeply affects mental health (the impact of which is invisible yet lasting). Kidney patients face these psychological health challenges:
- Depression and Anxiety:
Just the thought of living with kidney impairment is overwhelming. The patient could constantly think about the risks of low-performing organs & how worse they could get. When such negativity occupies the mind, anxiety and depression will likely enter the life. Kidney patients feel the pressure of managing this chronic condition and worry if it will trigger another health issue (like heart, high blood glucose levels, high blood pressure, etc).
According to some studies, around 30 – 40% of CKD patients live with depression.
- Body Image Issues:
In severe cases when dialysis, transplant or surgical interventions happen, certain physical changes will be observed. Often, patients are left with scarring, discolouration of their skin, and weight fluctuations. This all creates a huge negative impact on their body image, ultimately hurting their self-esteem.
- Sexual Dysfunction:
Hormonal imbalance is triggered by kidney disorders. This leads to low libido and sexual dysfunction, thus affecting relationships and causing a major emotional impact too. At times, the feelings of frustration and inadequacy kick in.
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World Kidney Day Summary from 2006 to 2024
Let us share a quick overview of the theme evolution of World Kidney Day campaigns over the years.
| Year | World Kidney Day Awareness Campaign Titles |
| 2006 | Are Your Kidneys OK? |
| 2007 | CKD: Common, Harmful, and Treatable |
| 2008 | Amazing Kidneys! |
| 2009 | Protect Your Kidneys: Keep Your Pressure Down |
| 2010 | Protect Your Kidneys: Control Diabetes |
| 2011 | Protect Your Kidneys: Save Your Heart |
| 2012 | Donate – Kidneys for Life – Receive |
| 2013 | Kidneys for Life – Stop Kidney Attack! |
| 2014 | Chronic Kidney Disease and Aging |
| 2015 | Kidney Health for All |
| 2016 | Kidney Disease & Children – Act Early to Prevent It! |
| 2017 | Kidney Disease & Obesity – Healthy Lifestyle for Healthy Kidneys |
| 2018 | Kidneys & Women’s Health: Include, Value, Empower |
| 2019 | Kidney Health for Everyone Everywhere |
| 2020 | Kidney Health for Everyone Everywhere – From Prevention to Detection |
| 2021 | Living Well with Kidney Disease |
| 2022 | Kidney Health for All: Bridge the Knowledge Gap |
| 2023 | Kidney Health for All: Preparing for the Unexpected |
| 2024 | Kidney Health for All: Advancing Equitable Access to Care |
As seen in the chart, the First World Kidney Day was celebrated in 2006.
Mental Health in Kidney Disease Patients
Just like any other human with a healthy kidney, mental health is crucial for patients diagnosed with kidney disorders. Providing psychological support to these patients can unload emotional burdens to a great extent. Adapting therapeutic approaches like breathing and relaxation practices, yoga, or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help in reducing stress. Form or join support groups where people suffering from similar health issues can meet and discuss challenges, thus finding emotional relief.
Advancing Awareness & Policy Changes
Thanks to the advancement of public awareness through social media, kidney disease patients are gaining support. It’s important to connect to support groups so that the patient never feels alone and necessary emotional support is availed. Overall, it creates a positive impact on mental health and a motivation to fight this health issue is gained. Let it be the silent pledge this World Kidney Day 2025 for a better tomorrow.
Conclusion
Kidney disorder is more than a physical battle. It takes a toll on the patient’s emotional and psychological health, thus adding up to the challenges of suffering. Foster awareness among the people around you and promote holistic care so that the patients receive the comprehensive treatment they deserve. Every attempt counts, right?
This World Kidney Day Australia, make sure you or anyone you know with kidney impairment is in a better state of physical/mental health by extending love, care & support.
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FAQs
Who hosts World Kidney Day 2025?
International Kidney Day is a combined initiative of the two, most popular organizations – the International Society of Nephrology (ISN) and the International Federation of Kidney Foundations (IFKF).
When is World Kidney Day celebrated?
World Kidney Day celebration is held every year on the second Thursday of March. This year, it falls on 13th March.
How much potassium per day for kidney disease?
Kidney disease patients need a daily potassium intake between 2000 to 3000 mg (approximately). The healthcare provider will share personalized guidance as per the severity of symptoms.
What are the 3 early warning signs of kidney disease?
Consider these as the early warning signs of kidney disease (or kidney failure symptoms):
- Weakness or fatigue
- Altered urination pattern
- Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet
How many times does the kidney filter blood in a day?
Kidney filters about 50 gallons of blood in a day which is equivalent to 50 times every 24 hours.