What is Self-Advocacy?
Self-advocacy is the process of speaking up for your own needs and interests, making decisions about your life, and communicating these clearly to others. It can be broken down into three key principles:
- Understanding yourself and your needs.
- Knowing your rights and the choices available.
- Communicating this information effectively to others when needed.
Self-advocacy isn’t about being pushy or bossy. It’s about being clear and direct, without being aggressive. It means making sure your needs are seen and respected, because you have the right to play an active role in how you manage your health.
Why It Matters?
The goal of self-advocacy is to feel empowered to voice your needs and work towards your goals. It helps you have a say in the decisions that affect you and ensures your rights are respected across different areas of life.
Because arthritis is often an invisible condition, it’s especially important to develop these skills. People around you don’t always have the visual cues to recognise that you may need extra support or adjustments.
Self-advocacy is a skill that develops over time. The earlier you begin, the more confident you’ll become in protecting your health, improving communication skills, and boosting your independence.
Everyday Advocacy Strategies
Self-advocacy can sometimes feel abstract, so here are some practical examples of how to speak up in different settings.
At study or work
- Ask for flexible deadlines, ergonomic setups, or time off when needed.
- Request lecture recordings if you can’t always attend in person.
- Apply for extra time in exams or assessments during flares.
Things you might say:
- “I’m committed to my role, but I need some flexibility for my condition. Could we discuss options like working from home on flare days?”
- “An ergonomic chair would help me manage my condition and stay focused.”
- “I may need occasional time off for medical appointments – how should I best manage that with the team?”
With health professionals
- Write down questions before appointments so you’re prepared.
- Be persistent if you know something isn’t right and you are not getting answers.
- Ask about all treatment options, not just the first suggestion.
- Do your own research from reliable sources – knowledge is power.
Things you might say:
- “I’m concerned my symptoms aren’t improving – what are the other options?”
- “I’d like to understand the risks and benefits before deciding.”
- “I don’t understand, can you explain it again?”
With friends and family
- Set boundaries and explain your arthritis to others in a way that is easy to understand.
- Suggest activities that suit your needs (e.g. picnic, movie night).
- Be honest that even if you look fine, you may still be in pain.
Things you might say:
- “I really want to hang out, but I’ll need to sit most of the night – is that okay?”
- “I can’t do late nights right now, but I’d love a brunch instead.”
- “I can’t carry heavy things today, would you mind helping me?”
- “I know I don’t look sick, but I’m in pain – thanks for being patient.”
Inner self advocacy
- Remind yourself it’s okay to rest, even if others don’t understand.
- Set small, realistic goals instead of comparing yourself to peers.
- Track flares and symptoms so you can advocate for yourself with clear patterns.
Things you might say:
- “Rest is not weakness – it’s part of my condition management.”
- “It’s okay to say no without over-explaining.”
- “I’m doing the best I can with the energy I have today.”
Building the Confidence to Speak Up
Speaking up for yourself can feel intimidating, especially if you’re newly diagnosed. But self-advocacy is a skill that grows over time – and that’s okay.
Start by trusting yourself. You know your body best. When you’re clear on what you need, it’s easier to ask for it. Being proactive and suggesting solutions also makes it easier for others to support you.
Remember: Arthritis may have ups and downs, but you can still be in control of the choices that work best for you.
Support and Resources
Finding your community can make self-advocacy easier. Connecting with others who live with arthritis can help you learn strategies and feel less alone.
- Peer support: Join groups like Chill and Chat for Young Adults with Arthritis
- Peer Mentoring: For one-on-one support with someone in your shoes Arthritis Assist Program
- Emotional wellbeing: Advocacy can be tiring — know when to reach out for support Beyond Blue
