Group Programs

Self-management refers to the skills and behaviours that can help you live well with persistent pain. Participating in a self-management program will help you learn tools to:

• decrease stress and body tension
• develop a healthier lifestyle
• increase your ability to perform daily tasks
• become more confident in your ability to manage pain on your own

How do I know if I am ready? 

• you want to improve your quality of life
• you are tired of relying solely on medication for pain control
• you are willing to explore new possibilities in pain management
• you are willing to challenge old attitudes and beliefs
• you are aware that thoughts, emotions and behaviour can impact your pain
• you are eager to learn more about yourself and to do things differently
• you are open to learning more about current pain science and the active role you can play in desensitizing your nervous system

How do I attend? 

A referral to Island Health’s Pain Program is required. Once your referral is accepted, your referring provider will be notified and you will be added to our Pain Program’s waitlist (approximately 12 months).

The Royal Jubilee Hospital (RJH) and Nanaimo Regional General Hospital (NRGH) pain program offer different group classes. To learn more, please refer to the following regions:

Royal Jubilee Hospital (RJH)

All active Pain Program patients have the opportunity to enroll in the course called Understanding Pain & Your Path Forward. This 1.5-hour introductory course is designed to help you better understand pain and learn practical skills aimned at improving your quality of life.

To register for this course, please email RJHPainSelfManagement@islandhealth.ca and provide your full name, the course name and your provincial health number (found on the back of your health card). Registration is self-directed, and our team will provide you with the information needed to join the course.

Download this brochure for additional details about the self-management program.

Nanaimo Regional General Hospital

Every patient is registered for orientation – once registered, you will receive a letter in the mail with the date, time, and instructions for attending. For more information please refer to ASCEND Pathway.