Psychological and psychiatric aspects of dialysis patients

Abstract:

Patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) face many stresses connected with their illness or treatment. The most common psychological problems are related to the experience of loss, uncertainty and awareness of one’s own mortality and limitations. Depression is the most common psychiatric disorder in these patients, followed by psychoorganic and adjustment disorders, while other disorders are less frequent. There are many unanswered questions involving diagnostic assessment and treatment (including psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy) of psychiatric disorders in patients with ESRD, which require further investigation. 

Key words:
comorbidity; depression; kidney failure, chronic; stress, psychological