Taking Action for Health

Healthy Acadia's "Taking Action for Health" program is the Chronic Disease Self-Management Program developed by the Stanford School of Medicine. "Taking Action for Health" is an an evidence-based program to help those living with a chronic disease discover new tools for managing their chronic condition and maintain an active and fulfilling life.  

“Taking Action for Health” is a free, interactive 18-hour workshop series that is open to anyone living with a chronic health condition, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, cancer, obesity, arthritis, migraines, asthma, eating disorders, depression and more. Caregivers are also welcome.  Classes meet once weekly for six weeks, for 2.5 hours per session. Participants will learn appropriate use of medications; how to evaluate new treatment options; appropriate exercise for maintaining/improving strength, flexibility and endurance; nutrition information; how to communicate effectively with family, friends and health professionals; techniques to manage frustration, pain, fatigue and isolation; and decision making processes.

The process in which “Taking Action for Health” is facilitated makes it effective, even for those living with multiple chronic conditions. "Taking Action for Health" sessions facilitated by two trained leaders, one or both of which are living with chronic conditions themselves. Classes are highly interactive - participants share their progress and successes and provide mutual support and encouragement. This helps increase participants’ self-assurance in their ability to manage their health and maintain active, fulfilling lives. Workshop participants will each receive a copy of the companion book, Living a Healthy Life With Chronic Conditions, and an audio relaxation CD, “Relaxation for Mind and Body.”

"Taking Action for Health" does not conflict with existing programs or treatment. 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 condition. The program is especially helpful for these people, as it gives them the skills to coordinate all the things needed to manage their health, as well as to help them keep active in their lives.

Click here to learn more about “Taking Action for Health.”

For enrollment information, contact: Nina Zeldin at (207) 667-7171 or Nina@HealthyAcadia.org.