Learn To Speak Up For Yourself
If you have dealt with emotional or psychological symptoms—such as depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, an eating disorder, or an anxiety disorder—you may find that other people have stepped in and taken control over some or all of your life for a period of time. While this is often very helpful, or even necessary, the time may have come for you to take back control and be treated with the dignity and respect you deserve.You may have forgotten how to advocate for yourself, or perhaps that’s a skill you have never learned, but doing so will help you gain the rights, power and worth to live as a healthy, independent adult.These steps may help put you on an upward spiral, increasing your sense of hope and self-esteem.
Believe in yourself. Be aware of your strengths, know that you are worthwhile, and be willing to take good care of yourself. Assess, appreciate, support and improve the way you feel about yourself.
Do self-esteem enhancing exercises. With a trusted friend, take turns speaking aloud everything good about the other person, or write positive notes about yourself. Read books about building self-esteem, or do something kind for another person.
Decide what you want, and what needs to change. Make a list of your needs and goals in life, and what negative things you need to eliminate. You might want to reassess this list from time to time.
Get the facts. Gather accurate information about how to speak up for yourself. Read reputable books, speak with experts, or ask a peer who may have gone through something similar.
Plan your strategy. Decide what steps to take, set a timeline if possible, and have a backup plan in case your first attempt doesn’t work out.
Gather support. Identify the friends, family members and health care providers you like, respect and trust. Ask if they are willing to listen to you, and give you advice or feedback as you are working on becoming a better advocate for yourself. Consider joining a support group.
Target your efforts. Find the person or people who can best help you and make an appointment to speak with them directly. State your message clearly and simply, remaining firm but calm.
After you have advocated for yourself, meet with a friend or someone else you trust to report what happened. Write down the next steps needed to resolve the issue.
Know your rights. Everyone is entitled to the same civil rights and equal treatment, including people with disabilities or distressing psychiatric symptoms.
REMEMBER: You are a unique and valuable person. You have the right to advocate for yourself, to protect your rights and insist that others treat you well. It all starts and ends with you, but if you need professional assistance along the way, Wilmington Psychotherapy is here to help. We specialize in a range of mental health services, including treatment for all types of emotional and psychological symptoms. CALL TODAY to schedule an appointment.
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