Chronic kidney disease (CKD) represents one of the major public health issues worldwide (1). The need to adhere to specific restrictions regarding the hygiene-dietary regimen and outpatient monitoring of nitrogenous waste levels in the predialysis stage aims to slow the progression of kidney disease. At the same time, patients undergoing chronic hemodialysis (CHD) are prone to disturbances in their psycho-emotional state, manifested by stress, anxiety, and tension. Psychological stress is defined as a negative emotional response resulting from chronic illness and hinders effective coping with it (2,3). Social support depends on the patient's perception of being part of a network of relationships and is considered a key factor in the adaptation of patients with ESRD to HD therapy (7,11).
Using questionnaires, interviews, and document analysis, a study was conducted on 90 patients aged between 28 and 82 years at the Clinic of Nephrology at St. Marina University Hospital in Varna. The patients were divided into two groups – those in the predialysis and dialysis stages of CKD. The analysis showed that a higher level of social support is associated with more effective disease management and better coping with psychological stress. This support can be provided by family, friends, colleagues, and a multidisciplinary team in the dialysis center.
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