For this post I wanted to write a small part on mental health.

Since this is such a big topic, I wanted to write about my personal experience, specifically as a transplant recipient.

The last few weeks have been slightly difficult as I had to attend a funeral and also undergo a small eye procedure. I also recently got some hard news regarding my health. 

As a transplant patient with kidney disease it means there is no cure, only management of my condition. Being a deceased donor recipient, it is uncertain how long the transplant will last and the treatment involved. 

Currently, I am in what is known as a relapse stage. Due to this I have been prescribed some new medications: for blood pressure and diabetes – which are supposed to help kidney disease. 

I was feeling quite overwhelmed and upset, not being sure if the medications are working and what will happen. Every time I go to see the doctor, it seems there is some more bad news. 

This all happened around the time of Valentines Day, and being single this year I felt the issues more acutely. 

I wanted to write this not for sympathy, or to complain but to let you know, if you are having a bad day, it is very normal to feel this way. Everyone has bad days. Everyone can work through them. 

Social media is difficult. Celebrities and content creators often portray unrealistic imagery. Watching them can also add to the overall feeling of being exhausted, overwhelmed and upset. 

More and more research is being done on the topic of mental health, highlighting the enormity of the issue, specifically on young people. 

Please note: Opinions are my own, always seek the advice of your healthcare provider. 

I also wanted to write this to say, it is important to remember self care.

Remember as patients only you know when it is getting too much, what your triggers are, and what is best for you. Sometimes even closest family members may not understand.

It is also important to distinguish between self care and procrastination. 

Avoid activities such as video games, binge eating, shopping, overspending, smoking, drugs, alcohol, or scrolling and online browsing. 

All of these are addictive behaviours and can worsen your mental health. 

Self care tips

• meal prep 
• laundry
• shower/personal hygiene,
• clean your environment
• exercise 
• organise medication 
• run errands/admin and office work 
• meditation

Meals

Proper nutrition is important. Avoid binge eating, however getting take away food or ordering in is understandable, and is okay on occasion, especially on days when you don’t feel the best. Keep ready meals nearby. Fresh fruit and salad is great to supplement. 

Eat in a seperate room to bedroom.

Laundry

Keep extra sets. Use waterproof bedding with zippers for easy removal, makes cleaning easier.

Personal Hygiene 

Practice good dental hygiene. Visit my post for some easy hair care tips here. Use a probiotic mouthwash or alcohol free mouthwash to protect teeth from staining. 

Officework

Contact your work/office and let them know about any appointments, events in your life. Eg upcoming surgeries, tests etc. Offer to work later or extra days the week leading up to it. This is better than canceling appointments or unexpectedly taking time off. 

Lastly, be kind to yourself.

Stay firm, take things slowly, one day at a time and take a break if necessary. 

For more information on mental health services contact your local GP or visit:

https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/

https://www.beyondblue.org.au/

Much love

Luna x