Session 9: Keys to Maintaining Progress

Abstract

Session 9 provides a review of the individual skills the teen has acquired in the Children’s Health and Illness Recovery Program (CHIRP) with a focus on relapse prevention strategies and anticipatory guidance. Key components of CHIRP are emphasized as they apply to teen and parent strategy for “Working Towards a Normal Daily Schedule.” At this point in the program most teens should have recognized the benefits of improved sleep and activity levels, increased social contacts with peers, and increased comfort in assertively communicating with others. Parents should demonstrate an increased willingness to support and trust their teen in becoming more independent in managing various aspects of their chronic illness, as well as in decision making in setting their personal schedule and making lifestyle choices. A key component to success in sustaining these gains is the willingness of family members to continue to follow established family rules for communicating about symptoms and resolving conflicts.