The Chronic Disease Self-Management Program (CDSMP) was developed by Stanford University’s Patient Education Resource Center and has been successfully implemented throughout the United States and around the world.
The program is an interactive and practical course that helps people with chronic conditions and/or their caregivers overcome daily challenges and maintain active and fulfilling lives. Participants attend peer-led workshops held for 2½ hours once a week for six weeks. The program is delivered in community settings and covers topics such as:
- Techniques to deal with symptoms of chronic disease, including fatigue, pain, stress, and emotions such as depression, anger, fear and frustration;
- Exercises for maintaining and improving strength and endurance;
- Healthy eating;
- Appropriate use of medications;
- Working more effectively with health care providers.
Diabetes Self-Management Program (DSMP)
Like the CDSMP, the diabetes focused program is presented in workshop format. People with diabetes and/or their caregivers meet for 2½ hours once a week for six weeks.
Cancer Thriving and Surviving Self Management Program (CTSMP)
Like the CDSMP and the DSMP, Cancer Thriving and Surviving is presented in a workshop format. People living with or who have survived cancer, and/or their caregivers, meet for 2½ hours once a week for six weeks. CTSMP participants find mutual support from others and learn to:
- Navigate life with cancer
- Regain fitness
- Manage difficult emotions and changes in relationships
- Make treatment decisions and plan for the future
The CDSMP, DSMP and CTS are being offered by the Department of Family and Community Health Sciences in several counties. For information on programs in these areas, please contact the FCHS educator: