The Chronic Disease Self-Management Program is a workshop given once a week, for six weeks in a community setting such as senior centers, churches and community centers. People with different chronic health problems attend together. Workshops are facilitated by two trained leaders, one or both of whom are suffering from chronic illnesses themselves.

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
• Evaluating new treatments

Each participate in the workshop receives a copy of the companion book, Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions, 4th edition, and an audio relaxation CD, Relaxation for Mind and Body.

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 while maintaining an active and fulfilling life.

The Self-Management Program does not conflict with existing programs or treatments. It is designed to enhance regular treatment and disease-specific education such as Better Breathers, cardiac rehabilitation, or diabetes instruction. In addition, many people have more than one chronic illness. This program is especially helpful in providing skills needed to manage the health issues that people might face in their lives.

If you would like to register for a Chronic Disease Self Management Workshop, please contact the Health Department at 748-5541 for more information on times and dates. 

We also offer Diabetes Self Management Workshop classes. If you would like to attend a Diabetes Self Management Class, please contact the Health Department at 748-5541 for more information on times and dates. 

The Arthritis Exercise Program is a community based, recreational group exercise and education program designed for people with arthritis and related diseases. This program can help reduce pain & stiffness and help maintain or improve mobility, muscle strength & functional ability. It also helps increase overall stamina. Since, there are more than a hundred different types of arthritis and related diseases, levels of fitness, and degrees of limitation, there are two levels of exercise classes that are available at the New Madrid County Health Department. The exercises you learn in the program however, should not replace therapeutic exercises prescribed to you by a therapist.

Arthritis Exercise Classes are conducted by Robin Walker at the Portageville Community Center every Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. & the New Madrid County Health Department every Tuesday & Thursday at 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Dates subject to change, please call for current dates and times. 

If you need additional information, please contact Robin Walker at the New Madrid County Health Department at 573-748-5541.