What is the Chronic Disease Self-Management Program (CDSMP)?
The Chronic Disease Self-Management Program is a six-week workshop that helps people with chronic conditions to better manage their symptoms and their daily lives. The workshop provides information and teaches practical skills. It gives people the confidence and motivation they need to manage the challenges of living with chronic health conditions.

How is this program delivered virtually? 

Offered virtually, registered participants can join from their homes via web. This program will be delivered via Zoom Meeting.

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.

What technology/equipment do I need to attend this program? 
To join this program, participants will require access to:

• an electronic device (computer, smartphone or tablet)
• a stable internet connection

Registered participants will receive an orientation session to join the virtual platform prior to the workshop start.

What does it cost to attend?
It is FREE to participants. Participants receive for free the Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions course book. Participants must pre-register for the program and are encouraged to attend all six sessions.

What happens in the program?
Workshop groups meet virtually once a week for 2.5 hours, over six weeks. There are 8-10 participants in each workshop. In the workshop, you will learn how about:
• healthy eating
• starting and maintaining exercise
• pain and fatigue management
• stress management
• communicating with your healthcare professional
• managing medications
• planning and problem solving
• goal setting

Participants take an active role in the workshop. They set individual goals each week and work to accomplish their goals throughout the following week. Participants are asked to share their goals and progress with the group.

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 a best practice program in self-management.

How do I get involved?
Please review the list of ongoing workshops on our home page or contact us.