Mindfulness for Chronic Kidney Disease

This trial explores whether a digital mindfulness app called Calm Health can reduce stress and improve the quality of life for people with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Participants will use the app for six weeks and wear a wrist sensor to track health signals such as sleep and heart rate. The researchers aim to determine the app's practicality and benefits. Individuals who have had CKD for at least six months and receive care at specific Yale facilities may be suitable candidates. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could enhance well-being for CKD patients.

The trial does not specify if you need to stop your current medications. However, if you have started new or changed doses of psychiatric medications in the past 2 months, you may not be eligible.

Research has shown that mindfulness meditation is generally safe for people with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Studies have found it can improve heart health and reduce stress. In trials, patients described mindfulness as a helpful and positive experience. The Calm Health app, tested in this study, uses simple questionnaires to monitor anxiety and depression, quickly identifying and addressing any issues. Overall, this approach is usually well-tolerated and does not cause significant side effects.¹²³⁴⁵

Unlike standard treatments for chronic kidney disease, which often involve medications like ACE inhibitors or dietary management, Calm Health is unique because it focuses on mindfulness as a therapeutic approach. Researchers are excited about this treatment because it targets stress reduction and mental well-being, offering a holistic approach that could complement traditional medical treatments. This method may help improve patients' quality of life and potentially slow disease progression by addressing the psychological factors often associated with chronic illness.

Research has shown that mindfulness practices can benefit people with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Studies have found that mindfulness meditation lowers stress, aids in emotion management, and improves overall quality of life for these patients. One study reported that participants felt less stressed and had better scores related to their kidney disease quality of life. Another study discovered that mindfulness training positively impacted the body's stress response. In this trial, participants will use a digital mindfulness app called Calm Health, which may help reduce stress and enhance well-being for those with CKD.¹²³⁶⁷