Mental health in late-stage polycystic kidney disease | Dr. Gavril Hercz, Cinzia Di Carlo RSW

Living with polycystic kidney disease (PKD) can affect much more than kidney function. It can also impact emotional well-being, relationships, family life, and a person’s sense of identity and future.

In this webinar, renal social worker and psychotherapist Cinzia Di Carlo (MSW, RSW, RP) and nephrologist and psychoanalyst Dr. Gavril Hercz explore the connection between kidney disease and mental health. The discussion focuses on common emotional experiences for people living with chronic kidney disease, including stress, anxiety, grief, uncertainty, caregiver burden, and adapting to major life changes.

Cinzia provides an overview of how kidney disease can affect mental health, shares practical coping strategies, and guides viewers through some grounding exercises that may help during periods of stress or overwhelm.

The webinar also includes discussion of:

• The emotional impact of approaching dialysis and other kidney disease transitions

• Fear of fistulas and other treatment-related concerns

• The unique challenges faced by caregivers and family members, including parents of children with polycystic kidney disease

• Building resilience and finding support during difficult times

• Mental health and supportive care services commonly available through kidney clinics, including social workers, coordinators, and registered dieticians

Whether you are living with PKD, supporting a loved one, or working in kidney care, this webinar offers practical tools, compassionate perspectives, and reassurance that you do not have to navigate these challenges alone.

Watch the seminar here: