The demanding nature of kidney disease treatments including frequent dialysis sessions, strict diet and medication adherence, and regular hospital visits, places a significant emotional and psychological burden on patients.
Kidney disease often leads to financial hardships due to medical expenses and loss of income. This economic strain can further contribute to mental health issues.
Despite the high prevalence of mental health issues among kidney patients, many cannot afford psychological care, and those who can often find services that are not tailored to their unique needs. This lack of specialized and accessible care worsens their condition and hampers their ability to manage their physical health. Addressing this critical gap is essential to improving their overall well-being.
We offer direct services, including free online mental health therapy, support groups, workshops, and seminars specifically tailored to the unique needs of individuals living with kidney disease. Our goal is to ensure that adult kidney patients have access to these essential services, regardless of their ability to pay.
In addition to direct services, MHKF advocates for research and collaborates with various organizations to influence public policy and healthcare reforms. Our aim is to enhance mental health outcomes for the kidney community, ensuring that their unique needs are recognized and addressed at all levels of care.
Elle Lee, the founder of our nonprofit organization, started this journey through her personal experiences with kidney failure, dialysis, and a kidney transplant. Elle was a young, healthy adult living an independent life until 2009, when she was diagnosed with kidney failure caused by IgA Nephropathy. This unexpected diagnosis turned her life upside down. She had to quit her job, move back in with her mom, and start dialysis, which severely affected her quality of life.
The sudden changes took a toll on Elle’s mental health, causing her to experience daily anxiety and depression. Despite frequent healthcare visits, conversations about the mental health impacts of kidney disease were absent, and accessing mental health care was nearly impossible due to limited income and inadequate insurance coverage.
These challenges sparked Elle’s passion for helping others navigate their mental health struggles. She returned to college, earning a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a master’s degree in Social Work. Elle began her career as a dialysis social worker for Fresenius, aiming to improve the mental health of dialysis patients. However, she found it difficult to prioritize patients’ mental health due to a high caseload and managing multiple job duties.
Determined to make a difference, Elle became a licensed mental health therapist in 2020 and started her private practice the same year. Her experiences and dedication led to the creation of this nonprofit, focusing on supporting the mental health needs of those affected by kidney disease.
