Non Communicable diseases (NCD) are the leading cause of global death, causing more deaths and strike hardest at the world’s low and middle income populations. These diseases have reached epidemic proportions, yet they could be significantly reduced with millions of lives saved through reduction of risk factors, early detection and timely treatments (WHO, Global Status Report on NCD, 2010).This course is designed to provide students with theoretical foundation in counselling and behavior change using the concept of motivational interview. It also teaches practical skills needed to motivate and implement this behavioral intervention in health care settings. The course is also designed for health professionals or counselors who will be tasked with counseling patients/clients towards positive behaviour change in relation to Smoking, Nutrition, Alcohol, Physical Activity, Stress and Spirituality (SNAPSS) issues. This course would explore their roles to the prevention and management of obesity amongst individuals. It will also highlight the importance of understanding energy balance to assist you in planning an appropriate weight loss program that is addressed to meeting the individuals’ nutritional and behavioral needs. In reality, it is about health behavior change – which people can do for themselves to improve their health. Since this is a very hands-on course, student’s class attendance and participation will be strictly assessed. There will also be a reflective writing assignment where students understanding of the traditional way of advising and MI style of counselling patients in relation to health will be assessed.
- Teacher: Torika Namoi
- Teacher: Filimone Raikanikoda
- Teacher: Timaima Tuiketei