Many people with GN can live regular lives and do things like work, go to school, and take care of their homes and families. But when you’re feeling sick, or you need treatment, you may find you need to make some changes.
This information is about how you or your child can make changes to regular activities or take time off when you need to.
Working and learning differently
Talk to your employer, principal or teacher, and family. They may not know much about kidney disease and how it affects what you can do. Talk to them about what you can do and what you need. Your healthcare provider can also join these conversations.
If you need to make changes to work or school, talk about:
- switching to a part-time or flexible schedule
- working remotely or learning online
- doing work that’s easier on the body
Taking time off
It may be best to take time off to rest. If you need this, ask your employer about health benefits, and ask your social worker and your pharmacist about coverage to pay for your medicines. If you’ve lost income, your social worker can also tell you about financial programs and how to apply.
Going back to work or school
When you’re ready, ask your healthcare provider about rehabilitation and how to prepare to go back to work or school. They will help you get ready physically and mentally so you can stay healthy.
Mental health
GN doesn’t only affect your body. It can also affect your thoughts and feelings. The following information is for both adults and children with GN that is affecting their mental health.
Having GN can bring up a lot of different feelings because you may:
- see yourself differently
- feel moody from the medicines you take
- be stressed
- feel you can’t control what’s happening to you
- feel lonely and isolated from family and friends (for example, because you think they won’t understand your GN or you don’t want them to know about it)
It’s normal to have any of these feelings, or many of them at the same time:
- shock
- sadness
- fear
- anger
- frustration
- anxiety
- depression
- loneliness
It’s important to talk to people who care, including family, friends, and healthcare providers. They can help you or your child manage these feelings and find support groups, spiritual advisors, and healthcare providers who give mental health support.
Learn more about depression, anxiety, and physical health problems.
