This Life Skills Presentation will be the topic of advocacy, including Advocacy on behalf of Survivors of Stroke. Advocacy is an important life skill for everyone, and occupational therapists use advocacy as a treatment option.
What will be covered in this presentation
This presentation will review:
- what advocacy is
- why it is important
- the different types of advocacy.
In addition, we will discuss how you can advocate for yourself, advocacy specifically for survivors of stroke, and how to expand your advocacy skills. Some resources will be provided at the end of the presentation.
Why is Advocacy important?
Advocacy is action to support, request, recommend, educate, defend, or disprove of a cause. It is important to advocate since we all have our unique experiences, perspectives, and interests. Sharing our voices can bring positive impact in numerous ways.
Types of Advocacy
There are four main types of advocacy:
- self-advocacy
- peer advocacy
- group advocacy
- policy/systems advocacy
All of these types of advocacy can be seen in everyday life and bring small our huge helpful changes to our lives.
How to Advocate:
When advocating it is important to identify through research of facts, and resources available. It is also important to connect with others whether to partner up in advocacy or educate people about the topic. Finally, it is important to reflect on the experience and see how your efforts can grow moving forward.
Advocacy for Survivors of Stroke
There are unique topics to advocate for as a survivor of stroke. This can include advocating for your health and well-being, and for accommodations and support in the community.
How to Expand Your Advocacy Efforts
There are several ways you can expand on your advocacy skills. You can:
- find organizations that support causes that you are passionate about
- share your story and experience with others
- vote for legislators that support policies you like
- ask questions.
It is important to learn from others and be respectful, even when there is a difference in opinion.