Managing a chronic condition or chronic pain can feel overwhelming, but no one has to do it alone. Choose Health, a free program offered by South Riverdale Community Health Centre (SRCHC), empowers individuals to manage their health and improve their quality of life. Through self-management workshop series, Choose Health provides support to adults living with chronic pain and disease, as well as their caregivers and health care providers.
Evidence-informed education is a key part of the Choose Health program. In small group settings, participants learn practical skills to better manage their symptoms and improve their daily lives. Discussion topics commonly include setting manageable goals, pain and fatigue management, principles of healthy eating, starting and maintaining physical activity, stress management, and techniques for relaxation and better breathing.
Pamela Sequeria, a Chronic Pain Self-Management program participant, explains how impactful the program resources were for her. “The education materials provided were so helpful and clear to understand. I now better understand chronic pain and the different types of pain, the steps to take to relieve my pain and how to divert my mind away from pain.”
Beyond the valuable resources and practical strategies, the supportive environment fostered by the Choose Health program is what makes the program truly special. Facilitators create a space where participants feel heard, supported and encouraged. As Luminita Capatana, another program participant expresses: “During the sessions I felt accepted. No one was judging and that made me confident to continue the program.”
What makes Choose Health client experiences and outcomes particularly positive is that the programs are led by people who have experience living with a variety of chronic conditions – which works to foster deeper connections and genuine understanding and encouragement. “The two teachers, Mary Ann and Jasmine, are so friendly and helpful. I strongly recommend this program to the people who need it,” shares Tracy Ye, another program participant.
The various Choose Health programs all make it easy for people to participate in a way that suits their needs. Programs are available both virtually, city-wide and in-person in the Toronto area. Check out our YouTube channel to get a sense of the look and feel of our in-person programs. For more information, including eligibility criteria and program availability, please visit selfmanagementtc.ca or email [email protected].