How self-management of a chronic condition can lead to better health
Are you having trouble coping and doing things you used to find easy to do? Is your chronic condition affecting you a little, or is it getting in the way of living the life you want? Either way, there is support for you.
I’m Karen Thorley, the Lifestyle Lead in Roma where we run the Better Health with Self-Management program. The six-week program is run multiple times a year and in multiple locations across southern Queensland.
What is an ongoing health condition?
Firstly, ongoing health conditions are lifelong and are often called chronic health conditions. These can include (but are certainly not limited to):
- Cardiovascular disease
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Hypertension
- Diabetes
- Renal disease
- Arthritis (or other musculoskeletal diseases)
- Chronic lung disease
- Neurological disorders
- Mental illnesses
- Any long-term condition
More generally, they can cause pain, tiredness, breathing & sleeping problems (amongst many other things). This can lead to depression as many people worry about how they’ll manage their condition now and in the future. Because of this, it can be difficult to cope and may stop you from doing the things you enjoy most.
How can I get on top of my chronic condition?
Studies have shown the more you do to help yourself, the better you will feel. Self-Management is about engaging in activities that improved your health and wellbeing. It puts you at the centre of your own care. Because of this, it builds your confidence and helps your health professionals to better support your health outcomes.
The Better Health with Self-Management Program
For the past 11 years, we have been supporting and educating individuals on self-management with our team of 60 leaders and master trainers across the state. The program is delivered over a 6-week period, with each session running 2.5 hours a week.
In the interactive workshops some of the things you will learn are:
- How to manage your symptoms
- Pain and fatigue management
- The benefits of healthy eating and physical activity
- Dealing with difficult emotions
- Action planning and problem solving
- How to make daily tasks easier
- Setting reachable goals
- Working alongside your doctor and healthcare team
- How to get more out of life.
By implementing some of the strategies taught in the program, you can improve your quality of life.
We believe self-management is so important as it impacts every aspect of a person’s life. It enables them to take a more active role in their treatment, healthy lifestyle and how to actively age.
The results speak for themselves
In fact, 95% of people who’ve been to a workshop said they found it relevant and useful to their situation. Why not come and try it out for yourself?
As a result of our past experience, participants who complete the program have a better understanding of what influences their condition. They’re also equipped to take responsibility for their own health and the importance of social, attitudinal and behavioural changes.
The program is suitable for all members of the community as well as those living in a caring capacity. We welcome and invite participants to bring along carers or those who have a supporting role in your life.
Are you interested in joining our programs or have further questions? Call us today on 1300 610 610.
