Programs > Chronic Disease Self-Management Program
The teaching process for the Chronic Disease Self-Management Program (CDSMP) makes it highly effective. Classes are highly participatory. Mutual support and success builds participants’ confidence in their ability to manage their health and maintain active and fulfilling lives.
Format
- Small group workshop
- 2-1/2 hours per session
- 1 session per week for 6 weeks
Settings
- Community settings such as churches, hospitals, senior centers and worksites
Participants
- People with different chronic health conditions attend together. Conditions may include arthritis, chronic pain, asthma, cancer, HIV, diabetes, high blood pressure or heart disease.
- 10 to 20 participants per workshop
Topics and Skills Covered
- Better breathing
- Positive thinking
- Working with your healthcare team
- Goal-setting and making an action plan
- Decision-making
- Problem-solving
- Healthy eating
- Communication
- Dealing with difficult emotions
- Medication usage
