written by Karunia Valeriani Japar          

Chronic Disease does not develop spontaneously and the patients rarely have total recovery. But thanks to the progress of medical science, many chronic disease patients can live longer, but it is still uncertain whether such patients have a good quality of life. The survivors usually have the emotional baggage. They need special care and attention to lighten their emotional burden. These psychological aspects are often forgotten by the health service officers.   The most common emotional burden is depression. Researchers found that patient with chronic disease would be stressed and depressed and the depression will trigger patient to suffer from the chronic disease. It is just like an evil cycle.

It might seem very serious, but in fact mental health can be maintained. Health officers, families and patients can use many strategies to physically and mentally support the better work environment so that patients can have a better quality of life. The main target of better quality life program can be on the Modified Risk Factors such as smoking, less physical activities, poor nutrition.

Health officer should pay attention to the patients’ mental health. According to the Indian Journal of Nephrology, there are some psychological guidelines for health workers to deal with patients with chronic kidney disease.

First patient has to be informed all the medical procedures. It is important to clearly explain the information to the patients since the medical procedures might trigger the negative feelings such as fear, anxiety, bewilderment and irritation. Being well informed patients can get more involved in the treatment from the very beginning.      

Second, according to The Indian Society of Nephrology, the diagnose of chronic kidney d can cause some emotional reaction that raise the following impacts :

Third, the medical officer should educate patients about the disease and its treatment, facilitate them with anything according to their tradition and culture, get social support from their families and friends, and also motivate patients; so they could be independent to take care, manage, monitor and encourage themselves.

• Provide information about medical history, its treatment and also diet
• Provide alternative options about medication and treatment
• Help patients with their daily problems such as medication and nutrition      
• Help patients to state their feeling and communicate it effectively.   
• Help patients to be more self confident          
• Be the informal support for the patients and their families.