Integrative Social Work and Chronic Illness   [Archived Catalog]
2021-2022 Academic Catalog and Student Handbook
   

SW 1016 - Integrative Social Work and Chronic Illness


The major challenge for human health in the 21st century is chronic diseases and chronic conditions. This is a global problem, burdening health care systems and economies worldwide. Managing chronic illness presents a critical challenge to the social work profession, not only because of the services required by the increasing number of chronically ill elders, but also because caregivers, too, require support. Unhealthy lifestyle factors are major contributors to the incidence of chronic conditions. Community-based public health interventions, for example, initiatives to ban tobacco and alcohol advertising, replace trans fats with polyunsaturated fats, and increase breast feeding. Students will also examine emerging evidence on the individual experience of health, illness and disease. They will also review strategies to assist individuals in modifying lifestyle, acquiring self-care skills and managing or reducing their symptoms and suffering. 3 credit(s)