Self-advocacy: a concept most of us have heard about, but one that’s difficult to understand and even harder to execute. It’s Tat on the blog today – hoping to help you understand what self-advocacy is and how you can use it to help yourself and others.
What is Self-Advocacy?
Self-advocacy can most clearly be described as an individuals’ ability to communicate their views, needs, interests, and rights, rather than having others communicate this for them. This skill can be especially helpful for those who need extra support, however it can be helpful for anyone.
There are 3 major components to self-advocacy:
- Understanding yourself: Self-awareness of your values and interests is essential in being able to communicate them to others.
- Knowing your needs: It’s also important to know your rights and where to access information, resources, and support that is relevant to you.
- Communicating these needs to others: Having the information is important, but so is knowing how to communicate that information with others.
What Can Self-Advocacy Do for Me?
Self-advocacy is often thought of as a necessary skill for those who need additional support.
While it is beneficial, that’s not the only time it’s useful! Everyone can benefit from self-advocacy. Whether you’re talking to your doctor, your employer, or another authority figure, knowing what you need and how to communicate it to others in a way they can understand can help increase your capacity to help and support eachanother. It can also help prevent miscommunications and ensure that your rights are being protected. Not only that, but simply having the knowledge and support in place to help you can improve your confidence. It will make asking for the things you need a little less scary and you will feel empowered.
How Does Using Self-Advocacy Impact Others?
We know what self-advocacy is and what it can do for us, but what about the people around us? Advocating for ourselves benefits more than just us – we are setting a precedence for how others should be treated. This can help improve policies that impact the rights of others, reduce stigma, create inclusive roles, increase understanding of others’ lived experiences, and overall create systemic changes that benefit everyone.
All Together
Self-advocacy is the skill of knowing what your needs, interests, and rights are, and being able to effectively communicate those to others. This can help others better understand your lived experience and create a more inclusive environment for everyone.
If we all stand together and support each other, advocating for ourselves even has the power to create systemic change. By having the confidence to speak up for ourselves, we will improve our own experiences and make it a little easier for the next person to do the same.
References
Robinson, S., Idle, J., Fisher, K. R., Reedy, K., Newman, C., Purcal, C., Giuntoli, G., Byrne, S., Nankivell, R., Burner, G., Touzeau, R., Adam, T., & Armstrong, P. (2024). How do self‐advocates use community development to change attitudes to disability? British Journal of Learning Disabilities, 52(1), 87–100.
If you have any questions, please reach out to Dóchas at 780-446-0300 or info@dochaspsych.com. Book an in-person or virtual appointment with one of our therapists here.
About Dóchas Psychological
Dóchas Psychological Services is a well-established and trusted therapy clinic located in Spruce Grove, Alberta. At Dóchas we value the idea that everyone deserves a safe space. Through connection and education, our team works hard to build a trustworthy relationship with each of our clients. It is our goal to create a community for our clients to feel like they belong.
Disclaimer
Information provided through Dóchas Psychological Services blogs or vlogs is meant for educational purposes only. They are NOT medical or mental health advice. You can read more about our disclaimer here.
