Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a long-term condition that affects millions worldwide, requiring ongoing medical treatment and lifestyle adjustments. Beyond medical management, psychosocial support plays a crucial role in enhancing the well-being of individuals with CKD. Various support groups and online communities provide essential resources and foster meaningful connections among patients. This article highlights some of the best support groups available and explores academic research on the benefits of social support for people living with CKD.
Top Support Groups for CKD
- National Kidney Foundation (NKF) Peers Program – This program connects patients with trained mentors who have experienced CKD firsthand. It provides one-on-one phone support to help individuals navigate their diagnosis and treatment options.¹
- American Association of Kidney Patients (AAKP) – The AAKP offers educational materials, advocacy programs, and online support communities that enable CKD patients to share experiences and gain insight into disease management.²
- NOWINCLUDED App – The NOWINCLUDED app offers a safe space for people in underrepresented communities to be heard and supported throughout their health journeys, whether they’re living with CKD, or just looking for resources.³
- DaVita Kidney Care Forums – A platform for CKD patients to engage in discussions, seek advice, and share their personal journeys with others managing kidney disease.⁴
- Facebook and Reddit CKD Support Groups – Various online communities on social media platforms, such as the “Chronic Kidney Disease Support Group” on Facebook and the “CKD” subreddit, provide accessible, real-time discussions for patients seeking emotional support.⁴
The Role of Psychosocial Support in CKD Management
Social support has been shown to improve health outcomes for individuals living with chronic diseases, including CKD. Research suggests that individuals who engage in support groups and community networks experience reduced stress, better treatment adherence, and improved quality of life.
A study by Cohen et al. found that CKD patients with strong social support networks had a 35% lower risk of disease progression compared to those with limited support.⁵ Emotional support from peers and caregivers has been linked to better mental health outcomes, reducing depression and anxiety commonly associated with CKD.
Additionally, research highlights the importance of patient empowerment in CKD management. A recent study shared that peer mentorship programs and community engagement initiatives improve self-management skills, fostering a sense of control over one’s health.⁶
Impact of Support on Overall Wellness
Participating in a support group can significantly enhance a CKD patient’s overall wellness. Peer support not only provides emotional relief but also encourages behavioral changes, such as adherence to dietary restrictions and medication regimens.⁶ Social networks also help combat the isolation often experienced by CKD patients, improving mental and emotional resilience.⁷
References
- Elliott MJ, Gerkensmeyer J, De Vera MA, Quinn RR, Rabi DM, Bello AK. Peer support interventions for people with CKD: a scoping review. Am J Kidney Dis. 2025;85(1):78-88.e1.
- American Association of Kidney Patients. “Patient Support & Education.” AAKP, 2024.
- NOWINCLUDED. “Kidney Disease and Our Community: What You Need to Know for Better Health Today.” NOWINCLUDED, 2023.
- DaVita Kidney Care. “Support Groups and Online Communities for CKD.” DaVita, 2024.
- Cohen SD, Sharma S, Acquaviva K, Peterson RA, Kimmel PL. Social support and chronic kidney disease: an update. Semin Dial. 2017;30(4):297-305.
- Tong A, Manns B, Hemmelgarn B, et al. The impact of peer support on self-management in patients with chronic kidney disease: a systematic review. Nephrol Dial Transplant. 2019;34(6):955-966.
- Lin CC, Wu CC, Anderson RM, et al. Social support and adherence to a low-phosphorus diet in patients with CKD: a qualitative study. J Ren Nutr. 2021;31(1):58-67.
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