All about Self-advocacy
What does it mean to be a self-advocate?
How do I become a self-advocate?
What does it mean to be a self-advocate?
Self-advocacy is a skill that you can utilize throughout your entire life.
A self-advocate is having the ability to speak up for yourself. This refers to your ability to understand what your needs are and then the ability to effectively convey and communicate those needs and rights to the appropriate people.
In being your own self-advocate, you will be an individual who realizes that you know yourself best, believe in your own self-worth and value, and take charge of managing and sharing about your own needs. No one will understand or know how to assist you unless you inform them.
How do I become a self-advocate?
Becoming a self-advocate takes time and much practice, especially when learning how to navigate the medical system. Give yourself grace and know that no one is a perfect advocate, but the more you practice the better advocate you will become.
With someone you trust, practice speaking up for your needs. You know your needs and situation best. In every medical situation, be persistent and do not give up. Follow through with what you say and do what you need to do to ensure that whatever you need, gets done.