This book explores the theories and practices that help to facilitate self-management of chronic health conditions (also known as chronic impairments or chronic diseases). It consists of four parts, in addition to an introductory chapter and a chapter on defining self-management, for a total of 22 chapters. This book includes discussions about self-management models, psychological interventions, and collaborative care on both individual and systemic levels for the promotion of self-management.
Self-management requires that individuals understand the range of symptoms related to their specific chronic impairment, what those symptoms may indicate, and what actions to take to address those symptoms. Healthcare providers are an integral part of providing self-management support (SMS) to these individuals. Self-management includes the micro-decisions that individuals with chronic health conditions make about their conditions and the macro-decisions (e.g., creating treatment plans) that healthcare providers make in collaboration with individuals with chronic health conditions. This book focuses on exploring a range of self-management practices that can empower individuals with chronic health conditions to be less dependent on healthcare systems and, ultimately, to be more in control of their lives.