Improving Health: My Way

Chronic Disease Self Management Program

Ongoing health problems (or chronic conditions) are health problems that you usually have for the rest of your life.

People who have health problems share similar challenges every day. The Chronic Disease Self Management Program consists of group sessions which are designed to help individuals with chronic conditions manage their health, and maintain active and fulfilling lives, despite the challenges associated with their chronic disease. People who have chronic conditions(s) can attend the sessions with a family member, friend or a support person of their choice.

Who is the program for?

Any adult who has a chronic (ongoing) health condition including among others:

• Asthma
• Arthritis
• Cancer
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
• Congestive Heart Failure
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
• Diabetes
• Depression
• Emphysema
• Fibromyalgia
• High Blood Pressure
• Chronic Pain
• Heart Disease
• Lung Disease
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Mental Illness
• Obesity
• Parkinson's
• Stroke

Plus anyone who cares for/supports someone with a chronic condition also may attend.

 

What will I learn?

In the program, you will learn how to:

• Manage fatigue or tiredness
• Learn how to eat healthier
• Deal with frustration, depression, pain, or isolation
• Start to become more active and/or maintain an exercise program
• Develop problem solving skills
• Communicate with family, friends, health care providers
• Get more out of life

How much does the program cost?

It's free! People who take the course also receive a book called "Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions" at no cost.

 

When is the program?

People who take part will attend six group sessions that last 2.5 hours each. The sessions may be in the weekday/evening or on the weekend.

 

You can be a Workshop Leader!

We are looking for people with long term health conditions who are motivated to help themselves and want to assist others to learn how to manage their health conditions. Training is free, no prior teaching experience is necessary; you must attend four full days of training.

 

Where will it be offered?

Both the Improving Health: My Way workshops and lay leader training sessions will be held in many communities in Western Newfoundland over the coming year.

 

How do I register for the program?

Call the Self Management Coordinator at 637-5000 extension 6689, or speak with your primary health care provider and ask if they will refer you. You can also email selfmanagement@westernhealth.nl.ca