Beginning dialysis may seem overwhelming, but learning about your treatment options and preparing in advance can give you a greater sense of control. Here are seven essential steps to help you get ready and feel more confident about managing life with dialysis.

1. Find a kidney specialist. If you don’t already have one, find a nephrologist—a doctor specializing in kidney care. Your nephrologist will guide you through your treatment options and work with other members of your care team to oversee your care.

2. Explore treatment options. Dialysis comes in different forms, including home dialysis and in-center dialysis. Learn about the pros and cons of each, then discuss with your doctor to determine which type of dialysis is right for you.

3. Meet your care team. Your nephrologist isn’t the only specialist who is there to support you through dialysis–there’s an entire team of people here for you, including nurses, dialysis technicians, dietitians, social workers, and more. Learn more about your care team and see how each will help you live your very best life with kidney disease.

4. Educate yourself about kidney health. Knowledge is power! The more we understand, the less fear we feel. Make use of the resources available at your kidney center, including classes on kidney health, treatment options, and the kidney diet. Staying informed will help you feel more confident and in control of your treatment.

5. Plan your dialysis schedule. Dialysis takes time, but it doesn’t have to take over your day. Work with your dialysis team to create a schedule that allows you to continue working, staying active, and enjoying your hobbies.

6. Find your community. Don’t think you need to go at this alone! With over half a million people on dialysis in the U.S. alone, there’s a vast community out there with valuable insights on treatment and kidney disease. Explore blogs, join online forums, or ask your center about local support groups. Connecting with others—whether online or in person—can make your transition to dialysis much easier.

7. Advocate for yourself. You know yourself and your body best. If something isn’t working for you, speak up. Talk to your nephrologist or care team about adjustments to your treatment plan that could help you feel better.

Remember, you aren’t alone on this journey! By planning ahead, collaborating with your care team, and connecting with others who share your experience, you can ease the transition to dialysis and continue living a fulfilling life.