In brief:

• Many Canberrans live with at least one chronic health condition.
• Take Control – Live Well is a free program that helps people manage their health.
• It offers practical support, group sessions and tools to improve their physical and mental wellbeing.

Nearly 50% of people in the ACT live with at least one long-term health condition. One in five people live with two or more.

Living well with a chronic condition can be challenging. The good news is that support is available.

Take Control – Live Well is a free program by Canberra Health Services. It helps adults with chronic conditions build skills, feel more in control and focus on what matters most to them.

About the program

Take Control – Live Well is a free, three-week group program for adults in the ACT.

It is for people living with a chronic condition that has lasted three months or more.

You attend one session each week. Sessions are available online or in person.

In each session, you will join a small group in a safe and supportive environment.

You will learn practical ways to manage your health and connect with others who understand your experience.

What you will learn

The program helps you build skills and confidence to manage your health.

You will learn how to:

• get the most out of your health appointments
• look after your mental and physical health
• find reliable health information
• set and work towards your health goals
• find local services and support.

What you will gain

By the end of the program, you will have:

• a plan to help you reach your health goals
• a resource book to take home
• the option to receive SMS support for up to three months.

What is a chronic condition?

A chronic condition is a long-term health condition that usually lasts for three months or more and may not go away.

These conditions can develop suddenly or over time, and some may get worse over time.

Common examples include:

• arthritis
• asthma
• back pain
• cancer
• diabetes
• heart disease
• kidney disease
• mental health conditions.

2026 session details

You can attend sessions:

• online – once a week for 2 hours
• in person – once a week for 2.5 hours.

Programs run at locations across Canberra. Carers are welcome to attend.

Upcoming programs:

Gungahlin Health Centre
Tuesdays from 14 July, 1:30 pm to 4 pm

Online
Mondays from 10 August, 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm

Belconnen Health Centre
Thursdays from 8 October, 9:30 am to 12 pm

Phillip Health Centre
Wednesdays from 4 November, 9:30 am to 12 pm

How to get involved

There’s no need for a doctor’s referral – you can refer yourself to the program.

Register via the MyDHR app or call Central Health Intake on (02) 5124 9977.

You can also find out more about the program on the Canberra Health Services website.

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