Self-management

Module 1 introduced chronic condition self-management and self-management support and described how the process of self-management is best achieved in collaboration with others. Module 2 looks in greater detail at self-management support and identifies the skills that a psychiatrist requires to offer optimal support.

The components of self-management

Research conducted by Rethink examined the self-management experiences and views of individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia.⁽¹⁾ The findings of the research are identified in Figure RETHINK, below. It highlights the complexity of a self-management program and the importance of addressing a range of facets to make the process successful and rewarding for the patient with an increase in the quality of life.

Supporting the lives of patients

For the patient to achieve personal goals and to live a fulfilling life, support is essential. In many instances support is suggesting pathways for the patient to investigate to advance their self-management skills, for example suggesting education courses to attend or suggesting links to peer support groups. By maximising all of the elements of self-management in Figure RETHINK, the patient is on the pathway to recovery.

Self-management in the lives of participants

Figure RETHINK: This diagram summarises the common themes needed for self-management identified by participants in Martyn’s Rethink Self-management Project.⁽¹⁾

Reference

1. Martyn D. The experiences and views of self-management of people with a schizophrenia diagnosis. Rethink self-management project, London, 2003.

Continue to Module 2 Page 2: The Process of Recovery