If you would like to discuss your kidney diagnosis with our trained members of staff, ring our free-to-call number. The NKF Helpline is available Monday to Thursday 08:30 am - 5:00 pm Friday 8.30 am – 12.30 pm on 0800 169 09 36 or email [email protected]

It Is OK to Talk About How You Feel

Who is this information for?

This leaflet is for people who have kidney disease.

It is also for families and carers.

It tells you about the help you can get from the National Kidney Federation.

Kidney disease is not just about your kidneys

Kidney disease can change many parts of your life.

It can change how you feel.

You might feel:

• Worried about the future
• Sad or low
• Angry or frustrated
• Alone
• Tired a lot of the time

These feelings are very common. You are not the only one who feels this way.

Some people worry about being a burden on their family. This means they worry they are giving their family too much to do.

Other people cannot see your kidney disease. So friends and family may not understand how hard it can be.

It is OK to tell your kidney team how you feel

Your kidney team wants to know how you are feeling. Not just your test results.

You might feel shy about this. You might think your team is too busy. You might see a different doctor or nurse each time, and not know them well.

But your feelings matter. It is always OK to talk about them.

Questions after your appointment

Many people think of questions after they get home. This is normal.

You might wonder:

• What do my test results mean?
• Is my kidney disease getting worse?
• What treatments could I have?
• Should I change what I eat or drink?
• Can I still work? Can I still travel?
• What will happen next?

Do not keep your questions to yourself.

Your questions are never silly. They are never a waste of time.

If you feel unwell between appointments, do not wait. For example, if you think you have a water infection, tell your doctor straight away. Waiting can make things worse.

Things that can be hard to talk about

Some things are hard to say out loud. For example:

• Feeling too tired to do everyday things
• Worrying about money or your job
• Changes at home or with your family
• Finding it hard to stick to food and drink rules
• Feeling lonely
• Feeling less sure of yourself

If any of these sound like you, we can help. 

How the NKF can help you

The NKF is a charity for people with kidney disease and their families.

We are here for you between your hospital appointments too.

We can:

• Give you clear, trusted information about kidney disease. Kidney doctors and nurses help write and check it.
• Listen to you and support you on our free helpline.
• Put you in touch with someone who has been through the same things as you.
• Help you with everyday worries, like work, money and travel.
• Tell you about other people and services that can help. 

Talk to someone who understands

Our Peer Support Service can put you in touch with a trained volunteer.

A volunteer is someone who gives their time for free.

Our volunteers have kidney disease themselves, or have cared for someone who does. Some have had dialysis. Some have had a kidney transplant.

They understand what you are going through.

Talking to them can help you feel less alone and less worried. 

Call our free helpline

The people who answer our helpline have lived with kidney disease too. They will listen and help.

Phone: 0800 169 0936

The call is free.

Open: Monday to Thursday, 8.30 in the morning to 5.00 in the afternoon Friday, 8.30 in the morning to 12.30 in the afternoon

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.kidney.org.uk

 Remember

• Your feelings matter, not just your test results.
• Your questions are never silly.
• You do not have to manage kidney disease alone.
• We are here to help.

Written June 2026
By The National Kidney Federation

Reviewed by
Dr Jyoti Baharani, Birmingham Heartlands Hospital University Hospitals Birmingham

Next review June 2029

The National Kidney Federation cannot accept responsibility for information provided. The above is for guidance only. Patients are advised to seek further information from their own doctor.