Self advocacy skills are a necessary part of life when you have an autoimmune condition. Wellness isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a state of being that encompasses the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of yourself, enabling you to live life to the fullest. But what happens when you’re handed a diagnosis, especially one involving autoimmune disorders, throwing a wrench into your quest for optimal health? Navigating the medical system in such situations can be daunting, especially if you find yourself at odds with prescribed treatments or facing dismissive attitudes.
This isn’t a guide on finding medical answers or deciphering treatment plans; that’s a discussion for you and your healthcare team. Instead, let’s talk about your mindset as a patient, because being an active participant in your wellness journey is crucial, regardless of your diagnosis.
In the realm of your health, you are the expert on YOU. Doctors may have seen cases like yours before, but they haven’t encountered YOU. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, seek second opinions, or insist on clarity. This is your journey, not theirs.
Consider this: You’re not your condition; you’re an observer of it. Creating this mental distance grants you strength and perspective. As the observer, you remain whole, you’re just undergoing a different stage. You have the power to advocate for yourself because, amidst medical expertise, you possess the profound knowledge of yourself. If advice feels off, explore alternatives. If you’re not being treated with respect, speak up. Advocate for yourself because you matter most.
The mindset shift towards self-advocacy places you in control of your condition, not the other way around. Here are actionable steps to embrace this shift:
- Empathetic Perspective: Imagine advocating for someone you love in a similar situation. Channel that same vigor and tenacity when advocating for yourself.
- You Are More Than Your Condition: Recognize that you are a complete being beyond your diagnosis. Shower yourself with self-love, compassion, and gratitude for navigating this journey.
- Self-Advocacy as Self-Care: Understand that advocating for yourself is a crucial aspect of self-care, contributing to your overall well-being. Take charge of your medical journey to gain control over the process and narrative.
While basics like exercise, healthy eating, screenings, smoking cessation, social connection, and stress management are vital components of wellness, don’t overlook the mindset piece. Agency, self-determination, self-advocacy, and awareness of self stem from realigning with self-love and self-worth.
Remember, you are the ultimate decision-maker in your wellness journey.
The mindset shift?
- “I know me best. I will listen and consider advice, but I will advocate, push, ask, and express how I feel because, above all, the decision must sit well with me.”
Now, take charge and embrace the empowered mindset that leads to a more fulfilling and resilient wellness journey.
This post written by Dania Baayoun, MA, CEC, CPC
She is the owner of Fierce Muse Coaching, where empowerment meets creativity for driven professional women. We specialize in guiding you to discover your inner strength, overcome self-doubt, and transform into the woman you aspire to be. Through a blend of mindset mastery, intentional presence, and embodied action, we empower you to navigate challenges with resilience, ignite your creativity, and boldly step into your authentic power. Join us on a transformative journey as we help you unleash the fierce muse within, and ascend to new heights both personally and professionally.
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