[Self-management support in chronic illness: history, concept and challenges]

Self-management in chronic illness has been discussed internationally for some time now. It has become increasingly important in German speaking countries as well. During the last years programs for self-management support have been developed with good progress. At the same time self-management has turned into a collective term. This article aims at clarifying terms and discussing aspects of definitions and concepts of self-management. Furthermore, it presents the tasks of self-management support and discusses needs for further discussion and action. The main focus of this article is on the importance of self-management support in dealing with chronic illness--one of the most important areas of its application.