What is self-advocacy?
Date: 05/09/25
Self-advocacy is your ability to effectively communicate, negotiate or assert your own interests, desires, needs and rights. By doing this, you should be able to make informed decisions based on what is best for you. You will have more control over your own life.
A good self-advocate can let people know what they think, feel and need. It sometimes means asking questions until you really understand the answers. It could mean asking for help. You might need to help others understand what is important to you. You might not always get what you want, the way you want it. But having the skills to communicate your wants and needs is an important step.
Self Advocate Qualities:
- I ask questions
- I am prepared and organized
- I am firm, but respectful and polite
- I communicate my strengths, needs and wishes
- I actively listen
- I take action, one step at a time, to make sure I get what is best for me
- I communicate clearly and with confidence
- I speak up for myself
- I am able to listen to the opinions of others, even when their opinions differ from mine
- I take responsibility for myself
- I know where to get help or who to go to with a question
Tips for self advocacy:
- Know your rights and responsibilities.
- Learn all you can about your needs, strengths, and weaknesses.
- Know what adjustments you may need as well as why you need them.
- Know how to effectively and firmly speak your needs and preferences. Find out who key people are and how to contact them if needed. Be willing to ask questions when something is not clear.
Member Services can answer questions about Nebraska Total Care. We have people to help you Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Central. 1-844-385-2192 (TTY 711).