Depression After Kidney Transplant

[kidneytransplan]

How long does depression and anxiety last after a kidney transplant?

[Blondie1303]

Hi I am 3 months post transplant and begining to feel better about my mental health. It was really hard though as I thought I would get the transplant and that would be it, life would return to normal. As we all know it doesent, think that is what causes all the anxiety.

[kidneytransplan in reply to Blondie1303]

Thanks Blondie,

When I read your response, I felt like "I" was writing it.!!

Thanks for letting me know I'm not alone in this

[lsg99]

Hi, I was fine until about six months after my transplant. I’d had a few complications and once things began to settle down I think the enormity of what I’d been through suddenly hit me. My consultant compared it to PTSD Post-traumatic stress disorder. I had panic attacks and felt anxious leaving home and even driving. I’m two years post transplant now and coping well but sometimes the fear creeps up on me unexpectedly. I guess the key is to recognise anxiety for the imposter it is and refuse to give in. It will get better but it does take time. I’m back to a ‘normal’ life now working full time and taking each day as it comes. Talk to someone, anyone and describe how you feel. Depression and anxiety are very common after a transplant you’re not alone.

[kidneytransplan in reply to lsg99]

Thanks isg99

I really appreciate your response. It is good to hear that others are or have experienced this. Do you think some of it is due to the meds?

I do have a therapist . I told her that I have been waking up each morning feeling scared and that I had no idea why. Then it worsens as the day goes on. She explained that major surgery, steroids with its effects,and the wear and tear my body has gone through are cause for my present anxiety When you don't know what's happening when you wake, up you get scared and then you get scared about being scared ! This has helped me a little

Hopefully I get some good definite info from my doctor , SOON

[Kristy123]

My boyfriend had both of his kidneys removed this past November. He is still loosing himself in depression every now and then. It gets frustrating because I need him to fight and stay positive about the belief that he will get a kidney soon. I’m thankful for this post because I always get to read about the actual patients perspective. This has not been an easy road by any means And we are no where out of the woods yet. But at least when I read posts or comments it’s reminds me that we are not alone in this journey.

[kidneytransplan in reply to Kristy123]

Thanks Kristy,

I am trying to take one day at a time

Yes, you are definitely NOT ALONE in this journey. I have found that the communication that goes on here really helps

Keep communicating.

[Cazzy41 in reply to Kristy123]

Kirsty I was in dialysis for over 3 and half years and I was one of The youngest patients in the unit. I was so depressed and I hated having to go for treatment as I never really felt ill anyway. I am now 4 months post transplant and omg there are days I would give anything to be back in my unit it’s mad. But I understand where your boyfriend is coming from and he needs to be allowed to grieve for the life he had before his surgery it is normal sweety and also I understand how frustrating it is for you. Just give him time and he will get there chick x