Despite advancements in renal replacement therapies and increased survival, patients still face several physical, psychological and social limitations as consequences of chronic kidney disease and treatment complexity. 1,2 The daily struggle with end-stage renal disease symptoms and related comorbidities, along with the need to cope with psychosocial stressors, directly impacts patients' quality of life and mental health. 3,4 Depression and anxiety are considered to be the most common end-stage renal disease-related psychological disorders, with higher prevalence and incidence rates in this population than those in the general population. 5-10 According to the World Health Organization, the estimated global prevalence rates of depression and anxiety in 2015 were 4.4% and 3.6%, respectively, with an increase in reported cases of 18% between 2005 and 2015. 11 The anxiety and depression rates that have been estimated among end-stage renal disease patients are not accurate: they range from 0 to 100%, depending on the diagnostic criteria, assessment tool and population characteristics. 12 A systematic review of 55 studies revealed prevalence rates of 38% and 27% for anxiety and depression, respectively, among end-stage renal disease patients. 13 The high frequency and impact of affective symptoms in nephrology practice have led the research community to devote increasing attention to depression and anxiety over the last few years. 7 In end-stage renal disease, these mental disorders are associated with various conditions that lead to poorer health outcomes, with direct impacts on patients' quality of life and survival. 14-23 Anxiety and depression are also associated with unhealthy forms of behavior, such as alcohol and tobacco use, poor eating habits, sedentary lifestyle and non-compliance with treatment. 24 These factors translate into increased risks of clinical events and the need for emergency services, thus resulting in higher healthcare costs. 25-26