What is the Chronic Disease Self-Management Program?
The Chronic Disease Self-Management Program is one of the programs available for individuals living with any long term health conditions. Designed to take place over 6 weeks, the program helps individuals living with long term health conditions learn skills that can help them better manage their symptoms as well as their daily lives.
How is this program delivered virtually?
Offered virtually, participants can join from their homes via web.
Participants who have access to an electronic device (computer, smartphone or tablet) and internet connection will be able to join via Zoom Meeting.
Registered participants will receive an orientation session to join the virtual platform prior to the workshop start.
What happens in the program?
The same 8-10 participants meet virtually on a weekly basis for 2.5 hours at the same day and time. In an interactive environment that is facilitated by two trained individuals, participants discuss topics such as:
- Setting manageable goals
- Making decisions to support life with long term illness
- Planning and problem solving to manage symptoms and changes in life
- Pain and fatigue management
- Communication skills to support management of long term illness
- Principles of healthy eating
- Starting and maintaining physical activity
- Managing stress
- Managing medications
- Techniques for relaxation and better breathing
Participants take on an active role in the workshop. An example of a weekly activity is the use of a goal setting tool that participants learn about, called Action Plan. Participants make Action Plans each week and discuss them during the workshop.
Who can attend?
Individuals over the age of 18 who are living with any long term health condition as well as their caregivers can attend this program. The program is highly interactive and participants should feel comfortable communicating and learning from others in a group setting.
Who leads the program?
The workshop is led by two individuals who also live with long term health conditions. Our peer facilitators attend a four day training, receive ongoing coaching, are remunerated, and are part of an active community of practice.
Who developed the program?
The modified version of the virtual Chronic Disease Self-Management Program was designed and licensed by the Self-Management Resource Centre. It follows a standardized format that has been proven to help people learn to better manage symptoms.
It is considered to be a best practice program in chronic disease self-management, and has been implemented globally to empower people living with long term health conditions.