Residents of Montgomery County dealing with diabetes have a new resource available to support their health management needs. The Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services, in partnership with the Maryland Living Well Center of Excellence, is kicking off a six-week Virtual Diabetes Management Workshop, open to the community at no cost. True to its aim, the workshop will run starting January 15, with sessions each Wednesday from 4 to 6:30 p.m.
The Diabetes Self-Management Program (DSMP), brought into existence by Stanford University experts, has garnered national recognition, and it's not hard to see why. Over the course of six weeks, participants will not only learn to manage their ailments physically but also emotionally. "Living with diabetes presents ongoing challenges, but with the right tools and support, these challenges can be successfully managed," County Executive Marc Elrich reflected in an announcement, emphasizing the workshop's importance in aiding residents to improve their overall quality of life. With classes also on Jan. 22, 29 and Feb. 5, 12, and 19, interested folks need to register to join.
Those who take part can expect to gain knowledge on how to stay active, make better food choices, and navigate problem solving and decision-making related to their condition. Moreover, the program's syllabus includes coping tactics for diabetes-related challenges, dietary adjustments to foster healthier eating habits, ways to increase physical activity, and strategies for maintaining a balanced weight. Registration is currently open, with priority for residents in specified zip codes where diabetes rates are noted as particularly high.
For interested participants, especially those residing within zip codes such as 20871, 20872, 20874, 20876, 20877, 20879, 20886, and 20912 where the prevalence of diabetes is stark, this workshop may serve as an impactful resource. Enrollment is accessible either online or by reaching out to Duwem Onwubiko at 240-777-1858, as reported by the Montgomery County's official announcement. DHHS continues its mission to aid residents in living healthy, independent lives through a variety of public health and human services programs. More details and programs are highlighted on the Montgomery County DHHS website.
