The St Joseph Health Department is holding a free workshop designed to give those living with chronic health conditions, and their families, the tools and strategies to live life to the fullest while managing their disease.

The six-week program begins Monday, May 4 and continues each Monday through June 15. There will be no class on Memorial Day, May 25. The classes are from
2pm to 4pm at the City of St Joseph Health Department, 904 South 10th Street.

The classes are free. Each participant will receive a free book, “Living A Healthy LIfe With Chronic Conditions” and the relaxation CD “Relaxation For Mind
And Body.”

Organizers say the process in which the program is taught is what makes it effective. Classes are highly participatory, where mutual support and success
build the participants’ confidence in their ability to manage their health and maintain active and fulfilling lives.

To register call Health Educator Mitzi Teliczan at (816)271-4659.

The workshop will cover a number of subjects:
1) technicues to deal with challenges such as frustration, fatigue, pain and isolation;
2) appropriate exercise for maintaining and improving strength, flexibility and endurance;
3) appropriate use of medications;
4) communcating effectively with family, friends and health professionals;
5) nutrition;
6) decision making;
7) how to evaluate new treatment options.