Dialectical Behavioural Therapy for Dialysis Anxiety

This trial tests a 13-week therapy program designed to help individuals who feel anxious about starting or recently starting dialysis. The goal is to determine if Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), which includes skills like mindfulness and stress management, can improve mental well-being. Individuals who have recently begun facility-based hemodialysis or plan to start soon and feel stressed about it might be a good fit. Participants will attend weekly sessions either in person or online. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to explore new methods for enhancing mental well-being during a challenging time.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the study team or your healthcare provider.

Research has shown that Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) is generally safe for patients. Studies have found that people tolerate DBT well. For instance, reports indicate significant reductions in anxiety and depression among patients on hemodialysis who completed similar group therapy. Major negative effects are not commonly associated with DBT; instead, most people experience improvements in their mental health.

Researchers are excited about Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) for dialysis anxiety because it offers a unique approach compared to traditional treatments like medication or basic counseling. Unlike standard therapies, DBT focuses on teaching practical skills such as mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal communication, which patients can use to manage anxiety more effectively. The program's structured group format, enhanced by both virtual and in-person sessions, promotes social support and engagement, aiming to create a more holistic improvement in patients' mental well-being. This innovative method could significantly improve the quality of life for dialysis patients by providing them with tools to cope with anxiety in real-time.

Research has shown that Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) can improve mental health. Studies have found that DBT techniques enhance mental health across various situations. While specific data on using DBT for dialysis-related anxiety is limited, it has proven helpful for managing anxiety and depression in general. This trial will evaluate the effectiveness of a 13-week DBT Skills Training Program specifically for dialysis-related anxiety. DBT teaches skills like mindfulness and emotion regulation, which can reduce stress and enhance well-being. Overall, DBT appears promising for helping people manage anxiety, including those on dialysis.¹³⁶⁷⁸