Chronic Disease Self-Management Program

The Chronic Disease Self-Management Program CDSMP is a low-cost evidence based intervention developed by Dr. Kate Lorig through the Stanford University School of Medicine. People with different chronic health problems attend together in a patient-centered environment. The program promotes self-efficacy and education through interactive peer-support. Subjects covered include: Techniques to deal with problems such as frustration, fatigue, pain and isolation Appropriate exercise for maintaining and improving strength, flexibility, and endurance Appropriate use of medications Communicating effectively with family, friends, and health professionals Nutrition Decision making How to evaluate new treatments Workshops will meet once a week for 2 hours for 6 weeks in two public libraries. The small-groups are facilitated by a pair of trained leaders - one or both of whom are a non-health professional who lives with a chronic disease.