Explaining supported self-management to people living persistent pain and long-term health conditions (NHS 10 Year Plan)

I have just been reading through the NHS 10 year Plan and it is encouraging healthcare organisations to provide more useful educational resources, so people can become better informed in decisions making of their health.  This of course learning how to self manage their health.

Explaining supported self-management to people living persistent pain and long-term health conditions can be made simple and relatable by using straightforward language and practical examples. Here’s how you might approach it:

Explanation in Simple Terms:

1. Definition of Self-Management:
- Start by defining self-management. You might say, "Self-management refers to taking initiative and responsibility for managing your own health, well-being, and daily activities. It involves making informed decisions, setting personal goals, and effectively managing your resources."

2. The Role of Support:
- Explain how support enhances self-management. "Supported self-management means that while you take the lead in managing your health and  life, you also have access to resources and support systems—whether that’s healthcare providers, family, friends, or community programs—to help you navigate challenges."

3. How It Works:
- Provide concrete examples. For instance:
- "Consider managing a health condition, like diabetes. While you make daily choices about your diet, exercise, and medication, you might also consult with a healthcare team for guidance, attend support groups, or utilise educational resources. This combined approach empowers you to take charge while ensuring you have the support you need."
- "In a work context, if you're aiming for a promotion, you might set your own goals, seek feedback from your supervisor, and connect with mentors to guide your professional development."

4. Key Components:
- Discuss the skills involved:
- Goal-setting: "It's about identifying what’s important to you."
- Planning: "Creating actionable steps and timelines."
- Reflective practice: "Evaluating what works and what doesn’t, and adapting as necessary."
- Seeking support: "Recognising when and how to engage with others for assistance and encouragement."

 * Key self management Skills

• setting goals and action plans, 
• pacing daily activities, 
• problem solving, 
• meaningful movement, and 
• having a setback plan.

5. Benefits of Supported Self-Management:
- Highlight the advantages:
- "This approach fosters a sense of autonomy and empowerment, which can lead to better outcomes, increased motivation, and overall satisfaction."
- "It enables you to build resilience by developing skills to cope with setbacks, all while having a safety net of support."

Summing up:

- Encourage the idea that managing one's life involves a blend of personal accountability and community support. "Supported self-management is not just about going it alone—it's about harnessing your strengths while leveraging the expertise and encouragement of others."

Suggested Activity:

- Self-Reflection Exercise: Invite them to reflect on a personal goal—whether related to health, career, or personal development. Ask them to identify what steps they can take independently and who in their network could provide support (like friends, family, or professionals). Encourage them to write down their thoughts or share them in a discussion.

By framing supported self-management in this way, you can engage adults in a meaningful conversation that highlights both their own capabilities and the importance of community, ultimately making the concept relatable and actionable.

Also signpost to the Self Management Toolkit Website

Pain Toolkit Academy for online courses for patients and healthcare professionals