Table 5a.

Thematic analysis of patient interview responses (Themes and illustrative quotes from patients on emotional, informational, financial, and Familial experiences)

Sub-Themes	Participant quotes
Cost of dialysis, loss of income, reliance on the spouse for financial support	“Dialysis weekly requires money,” “My wife has to bear all the income,” “Taking leave for dialysis, my salary cuts.”
Fear of health deterioration, decision-making about treatment, family welfare	“What will be our future?“, “Fear about the decisions,” “Will I get better health after this?”
Spousal support, shared decision-making, reliance on family	“My wife is a big supporter,” “We decide everything together,” “Always being there with me.”
Dietary restrictions, reduced mobility, work-life adjustments	“Living a lifestyle which my doctor said, eating less water,” “Traveling is difficult,” “Illness is very tiring.”
Depression, fear, loss of faith, frustration	“Lost faith in God,” “Can’t believe I got this disease,” “Scared if the treatment goes right.”
Clarifying treatment options, understanding disease progression	“Asking more information about the disease,” “Second opinion about the disease and treatment.”
Work disruptions, fatigue, inability to meet responsibilities	“Taking leave for dialysis,” “Tiredness after dialysis,” “Who will take family responsibilities?”
Exploring alternative therapies, accepting dialysis as the only option	“Should I go for Ayurveda treatment?“, “Dialysis is the only treatment,” “Whatever my doctor says.”
Reliance on family, fear of being a burden	“Who will take care of my family?” “What happens if I can’t make decisions?”