If you or someone you know has a chronic health condition-
If you or someone you know has a chronic health condition-
consider these workshops which are given in various places across the country:
Chronic Disease Self-Management Program
"The Chronic Disease Self-Management Program is a workshop given two and a half hours, once a week, for six weeks, in community settings such as senior centers, churches, libraries and hospitals. People with different chronic health problems attend together. Workshops are facilitated by two trained leaders, one or both of whom are non-health professionals with chronic diseases themselves.
Subjects covered include: 1) techniques to deal with problems such as frustration, fatigue, pain and isolation, 2) appropriate exercise for maintaining and improving strength, flexibility, and endurance, 3) appropriate use of medications, 4) communicating effectively with family, friends, and health professionals, 5) nutrition, 6) decision making, and, 7) how to evaluate new treatments.
It is the process in which the program is taught that makes it effective. Classes are highly participative, where mutual support and success build the participants’ confidence in their ability to manage their health and maintain active and fulfilling lives."
http://patienteducation.stanford.edu/programs/cdsmp.html
I am currently in a program, and find it very valuable.
This is not a medical program, it is lead by trained personal who have a chronic illness themselves.
The aim is to break down the depression, frustration, and isolation that can result from having a chronic illness.
Examples of health conditions which would bring someone to such a group include any condition which impacts/limits your life, such as Multiple Chemical Sensitivities, arthritis, depression, fibromyalgia, diabetes, pain, pulmonary issues, heart disease, cognitive difficulties...
It is FREE, funded by Medicare.
You do not have to be on Medicare to participate.