A Qualitative Analysis of Best Self-management Practices: Sickle Cell Disease

Seven adult patients with sickle cell disease and 1 social worker participated. The following themes emerged: self-awareness, emotional support, career selection and success factors, nutrition, advocacy, knowledge, physical, and complementary and alternative medicine. Self-awareness was the most reported strategy with emphasis on jour-naling and body awareness. Emotional support included spiritual support, friends, family, professional counseling, and spiritual support. A variety of suggestions were discussed related to the other themes. All participants used many strategies daily to maintain optimal health.