Even with a chronic condition like end stage renal disease (ESRD), you can build a better, different life. It isn’t easy to have a positive attitude all the time. In fact, no one does. So seize those times when you’re feeling good to actively look for ways to improve your health, stay close to friends and family and discover outlets like volunteering to keep growing.

Five Positive ways To Handle Emotions.

1) Share your feelings with a friend, family member, social worker or someone you turn to for spiritual guidance. Talking with someone else will help you gain another perspective.

2) Allow yourself to feel whatever you’re feeling—

without judging or blaming yourself.

3) Focus on today instead of worrying about the future.

"Being in the moment” will feel less overwhelming.

4) Take a short, brisk walk or begin daily exercise.

Countless studies have shown the positive emotional benefits of even the simplest exercise. Always check with your doctor before you begin any exercise program.

5) Get support by building a community.

People with chronic conditions who have strong support networks live longer and manage their health better. That’s a fact.

Master dialysis-friendly cooking

Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a professional chef, now is the time to learn how to cook in a way that serves the unique needs of your condition. Collect healthy, dialysis-appropriate recipes, experiment with new spices, and learn to understand the nutritional value of everything you make.

Explore the great outdoors

Getting back to nature is a great way to unwind from all of the changes that are going on in your life. Studies show there are multiple benefits to being outdoors—from easing fatigue to improving creativity.

Choose an activity you’ll enjoy. This is absolutely the number-one thing to consider. You’re much more likely to keep doing something you love.

Start slowly and sensibly. You don’t have to run a marathon on your first day. Just dedicate 10 or 15 minutes to something as simple as walking around your neighborhood or actively cleaning your house—and build from there.

Exercise with a friend. You can motivate each other—the buddy system really works.

Use a smartphone or pedometer. Consider wearing a pedometer or downloading an app to track your exercise progress and provide encouragement to keep you going.

Set goals and reward yourself for reaching them!

Know Their Limits

Dialysis can be a very tiring process. Even though the person you care for will be sitting during the entire procedure, he or she may be fatigued when they are finished. So it’s a good idea not to schedule a lot of other activities on dialysis days

Keep track of their symptoms

Flu-like symptoms, such as feeling tired or weak and having chills, are common for people on dialysis. You may notice they sleep more or are more forgetful. These symptoms are most often due to anemia—a shortage of red blood cells—and can be treated. Be sure to keep the nephrologist and treatment team informed about how the person you care for is doing.

Take time for yourself

Being a care partner is hard work, emotionally and physically. Make sure you take time to do some of the things you enjoy on your own, such as visiting friends, going to the movies or just going for a walk. Finding healthy ways to relieve stress can do a surprising amount of good for your energy and mood.