Making Life Better through Living Well Workshops

For those who have enjoyed active, healthy, involved lives, getting older may not have to mean major changes. If you think slowing down is just part of “getting older,” think again.

Then, think about attending the free Living Well Workshop—six weekly sessions held at the Douglas County Community Mental Health Center with support from the Douglas County Health Department. The Workshop was developed at Stanford University and has been offered throughout the United States, including earlier sessions in Douglas County.  The Living Well Workshop has helped participants learn how to live better with ongoing health conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, high blood pressure, anxiety, heart disease, depression, anxiety and to:

·         Find better ways of dealing with pain and fatigue

·         Discover easy exercises to help improve or maintain strength and energy

·         Learn the appropriate use of medications

·         Improve nutrition

·         Talk effectively with family, friends and health professionals

·         Understand new treatment choices

·         Feel better about life

Taught by trained staff, including some with their own health conditions, the program covers a new topic each week and provides opportunities for interaction and group problem solving. 

“We are really more like coaches,” said Jeri Schaben, one of the project’s leaders at the Douglas County Community Mental Health Center.  “The answer to someone’s question is usually in the room.”

The next Workshop series begins June 2 at 10 a.m.  The two-hour sessions will take place weekly on Saturdays through July 14, with no session on June 9.

The Workshop is free to the public. For more information or to enroll in the Living Well program, call 402-444-5200.