"Very helpful to be with other people who also have problems. Makes you feel you are not alone."
Who is it for?
Caregivers and individuals who have chronic pain as a primary or secondary symptom such as, but not limited to:
- Chronic musculoskeletal pain (such as chronic neck, should, back pain, etc.)
- Whiplash injuries
- Chronic regional pain syndromes
- Repetitive strain injury
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Post-surgical pain that lasts beyond 6 months
- Neuropathic pain (often caused by trauma)
- Neuralgias (such as post-herpetic pain, and trigeminal neuralgia)
- Post-stroke or central pain
- Persistent headache
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease
- Fibromyalgia
- Arthritis
- Severe muscular pain due to conditions such as Multiple Sclerosis
Goals
- Develop new skills and abilities to self-manage
- Build confidence to manage and cope with chronic pain
- Give and receive support from others who are experiencing similar health problems
Service
In the 6 week workshop learn how to:
- Make action plans
- Solve problems
- Make informed decisions
- Incorporate exercise into daily routines
- Manage symptoms
- Develop healthy eating habits
- Manage stress and fatigue
- Deal with difficult emotions
- Communicate with others (loved ones, health care providers)
Leaders
Workshop leaders are specially trained volunteer leaders, many also living with a chronic condition
Cost
Free
Schedule
2.5 hours weekly for 6 consecutive weeks
Additional
The program began in Saskatchewan in 2002. It is delivered under license from Stanford University by volunteer Peer Leaders. Pairs of trained Peer Leaders work with groups of up to 15 people. Research shows that the program improves people's sense of wellbeing and increases people's confidence in managing their health.
Contact
LiveWell CDM Program
306-655-LIVE (306-655-5483)
Toll Free: 1-877-LIVE-898 (1-877-548-3898)
Fax: 306-655-6758
Leader Training Opportunities
We are always looking for volunteer peer leaders to co-lead this six week program. Leaders receive four full days of training and would ideally commit to leading a minimum of 2 six week sessions.
