The Living Well with Chronic Conditions Program (otherwise known as the Chronic Disease Self-Management Program [CDSMP]) is a workshop given 2 1/2 hours, once a week, for 6 weeks, in community settings, such as senior centers, churches, libraries, and hospitals. People with different chronic health problems attend together. Workshops are facilitated by 2 trained leaders, one or both of whom are non-health professionals with a chronic condition 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. How to evaluate new treatments.

Each participant in the workshop receives a copy of the companion book, Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions, 3rd Edition, and an audio relaxation tape, Time for Healing.

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.