Poughkeepsie …  The Dutchess County Department of Behavioral & Community Health (DBCH), partnering with Mental Health America of Dutchess County, and HRHCare, will offer Living Well with Diabetes workshops on Tuesdays from 5:30 to 8 p.m., beginning September 17th and meeting weekly until October 22nd. The classes will be held at the DBCH, located at 85 Civic Center Plaza, Suite 106, in the City of Poughkeepsie. Those who choose to attend at least four of the six classes have a chance to receive a $25 gift card.

Half of all adults are affected by chronic diseases, such as diabetes, and a self-management education program can help residents living with ongoing health conditions discover how to foresee obstacles to their health and take steps toward living a healthier life.

“Workshops like these can assist you in learning key strategies, like goal-setting and self-monitoring, which will help you make well-informed decisions about your health,” said DBCH Commissioner A. K. Vaidian, MD, MPH.

The classes offered are free, evidence-based workshops which meet weekly for six sessions. Participants learn techniques and skills needed in the day-to-day management of their diabetes. These programs help residents learn strategies and develop the skills and confidence to cope with symptoms, manage fatigue and pain, handle stress, communicate effectively with doctors, and manage medications, diet, and exercise. They have also been proven to be effective for caregivers and family members.

For further information or to register, call Marlene Taylor at (845) 473-2500, ext. 1309 or email mtaylor@MHADutchess.org