Many people with disabilities have found that in order to obtain the services and supports they need for recovery, they must engage in self-advocacy. This implies standing up to for oneself and communicating needs effectively and these are skills that can be learned. There are many advocates that teach self advocacy skills to help people resolve specific problems. Successful self-advocacy does not require extensive knowledge of legal concepts or complicated strategies. Rather a focus on basic concepts that people can learn easily and apply right away can have an immediate impact on people’s lives.
Randy's Story: Victim to Victor with Self-Therapy
Protection & Advocacy Inc. Veterans Peer-Self Advocacy Group. Produced by Anthony Lobue
The Clearinghouse at Mental Health Association of Southeastern Pennsylvania has made the following ten suggestions:
Believe in yourself and what you can accomplish
Define your needs by making sure you can explain exactly what you need (ie:services etc.)
Seek out problem-solvers. Target people who have the ability to make decisions or influence people who do.
Do a reality check by checking with others as to the situation you are presenting to help see where the case is strong or weak
Practice beforehand with a friend who can help in what you want to present and how to respond to questions.
Find an outlet for your anger which involves finding ways to let off steam.
Promise yourself a reward for unpleasant tasks.
Practice active listening. Let people talk, but don’t remain completely silent
Ask questions and restate what the person is saying to clarify issues.
Stick to the facts. People are more likely to be swayed by hard facts than they are by opinion
Follow up and send thank-you notes. Self-advocacy is about building relationships.
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