Kidney Care Education Life with Kidney Disease Emotional Support Maintaining Healthy Relationships During a Crisis

Maintaining Healthy Relationships During a Crisis

During unusual circumstances, such as the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic, people may be spending more time together than usual, sometimes in small spaces. Social distancing limits your ability to visit others outside of your home, go to restaurants and attend other social outings with a larger group. Many people may find themselves momentarily without a job or adjusting to working from home.

All of these factors may lead to increased stress and worry, with fewer ways to cope. You may find yourself arguing more with your loved ones, and sometimes over the smallest things. It is normal to feel some extra tension in these type of circumstances. Thankfully, there are things you can do that might help you to maintain healthy relationships with those living under the same roof.

1. Take time apart.

2. Breathe.

3. Save conversations about bigger issues for later.

4. Limit alcohol consumption.

5. Stay active.

6. Communicate, communicate, communicate.

7. Be patient.

8. Step up.

You can do it! Life eventually returns to a more comfortable and familiar pattern. When that happens, the hope is for our loved ones to remember how we supported and care for one another.

During challenging times, we are here to help. If you are a DaVita dialysis patient, please reach out to your social worker for more tips and additional support. You can find more information about coping with COVID-19 here.


This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice from a medical provider.

Please check with a medical professional if you need a diagnosis and/or for treatments as well as information regarding your specific condition. In case of emergency, call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest emergency department.

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