Written By
Dr. Dulce Maria Ruelas
Associate Professor,
College and Nursing and Health Care Professions
Speak with a University Counselor today.
Approved by the author of the blog for the College of Nursing and Healthcare Professions on April 22, 2024.
Approved by the public health lead faculty of the College of Nursing and Health Care Professions on July 24, 2024.
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Grand Canyon University. Any sources cited were accurate as of the publish date.
A chronic condition is a health issue that lasts for at least one year and requires ongoing management.1 This could be anything from diabetes and heart disease to asthma and arthritis. Did you know that six in 10 adults in the United States have a chronic disease, while four in 10 have two or more?1 Although these conditions can be challenging, there is good news: Public health offers a toolbox of strategies to help you manage chronic illness to live a fulfilling life.
Public health goes beyond treating illness: It also focuses on creating the conditions for everyone to be healthy. There are many systems, strategies and techniques available to public health professionals that can help promote chronic condition management, as well as educate and empower those struggling with these conditions to live happier, healthier lives.
Chronic conditions may be a reality for millions, impacting daily routines and long-term health. But know this: You are not defined by your diagnosis. This journey toward a healthier you starts with understanding your condition. Reach out to your local public health department and healthcare provider, and explore the wealth of resources available in your community. You'll be amazed at the wellspring of strength and resilience you discover within yourself and the supportive network waiting to empower you.
Public health initiatives are your partner in this journey. They provide evidence-based information and self-management tools, equipping you to make informed decisions about your healthcare. This isn't a static landscape; public health is constantly evolving, with ongoing research dedicated to improving chronic illness management. As new advancements emerge, you can be confident that public health will be there, translating this knowledge into practical tools and support to empower you on your path toward a fulfilling life. Remember, you have the power to navigate this journey, and public health is here to walk beside you every step of the way.
If you want to help empower or inspire others with chronic conditions to live healthier lives through pursuing a career in public health, consider enrolling in the Bachelor of Science in Public Health degree at Grand Canyon University.
Now, let's talk about the power of lived experience. Many public health professionals are driven by their own (or a loved one’s) experience with chronic illness. This empathy can fuel their passion to develop better management strategies and support systems. You, too, can inspire change. Share your story, advocate for better resources, and connect with others facing similar challenges. By sharing your knowledge and experiences, you can empower others on their path to well-being. Remember, you're not alone in this journey. Public health stands with you, offering resources, support and the knowledge to live a full and vibrant life, even with a chronic condition.
Public health offers a multi-pronged approach to empower you in managing your chronic illness. Some key strategies include:
Imagine workshops designed to equip you with the tools you need to thrive. CDSMPs provide a supportive environment where you learn practical skills for managing symptoms, like pain management techniques or dietary adjustments. You can also gain valuable communication skills to effectively discuss your condition and concerns with doctors, ensuring that you're actively participating in your own healthcare journey. Perhaps most importantly, CDSMPs build confidence in your self-care abilities. By learning to manage your condition effectively, you can gain a sense of control and empowerment.
Accessibility is another critical concern addressed by public health initiatives. In the past, inconvenient appointments that disrupted your entire day may have been a barrier to regular check-ins with specialists. Today, however, telehealth programs have revolutionized chronic disease management by facilitating consultations with healthcare professionals from the comfort of your own home. This saves you time and hassle and makes specialized care more accessible, particularly for those in rural areas or with limited mobility.
Finally, public health recognizes the power of community in fostering well-being. Local initiatives supported by public health can make a significant difference in your journey of learning how to cope with chronic illness. Imagine joining a fitness class designed specifically for people with your condition. Modifications would be offered to accommodate your needs, while camaraderie and shared experiences would provide valuable support. Picture attending healthy cooking demonstrations that provide delicious recipe ideas and focus on incorporating essential nutrients to manage your specific condition. These programs go beyond simply providing information; they make healthy choices more enjoyable and foster a sense of community and belonging. This social support network is crucial for overall well-being because it combats feelings of isolation and empowers you to stay motivated on your path toward a healthier you.
Public health can empower those with chronic illness and inspire change via behavior change theory, community support and education, and empowerment. In behavior change theory, we seek to understand how habits and routines impact health. Using this knowledge, public health professionals can develop personalized strategies to help you adopt healthy behaviors, like regular exercise or healthy eating, that can significantly improve your condition.
Public health also fosters community support systems. These workers connect you with programs, groups and resources for chronic illness management. Imagine a network of people who understand your struggles and cheer you on.
We all know that knowledge is power. Public health initiatives provide evidence-based information and self-management tools to help you understand your condition and make informed decisions about your care.
