Self-advocacy is a key of being a “Stroke Survivor”. After a stroke, there is rarely any complete “going back”. Recovery is a lifelong journey. While the road to recovery almost always takes more time and efforts than anticipated, there are things one can do to make the journey easier to travel.

The definition of advocacy is “active support”, especially the act of pleading or arguing for something. In this case it is for the patient himself, for his own well-being. To be a self-advocate is definitely to be a supporter, believer, encourager, and activist of and for oneself. Patients should state their needs in a clear, specific and firm ways, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.

Suffering a stroke is often an overpowering experience, which takes from survivors a sense of control, both over their physical and mental health and well being. Self-advocacy is important, because it is a way of empowering oneself; that allows patients to personally take responsibility in making the most of their recovery from stroke. Patients have to identify and explain what they want and need, which can directly impact their own quality of life.

First step, you may ask yourself or ask your dear one what you/he can do to prevent another stroke. Take the steps necessary as prescribed by the doctor. This includes things such as monitoring blood pressure, finding out cholesterol numbers and working to control them, quitting smoking.

As one advocates oneself, education is critical. Gather information to help understand what has happened and what to do next. Learn about stroke, the disabilities, and what treatment options are available. Books, pamphlets and fact sheets are quite good resources for getting this information. Watching informational videos, CD-ROMs or DVDs are excellent methods too if patients and family want to know more. You can surely find these resources on some online bookstores like Amazon. Meanwhile, browsing the web or having a friend or family member to do it for you stays the easiest way, as many sites give quite good and useful information, like www.strokeassociation.org, or www.mystroke.org. Besides this, attending a workshop, seminar or talk allows the family to get directly in contact with experts; otherwise you can talk to a social worker, case manager or community resource specialist.

It is vital to seek out and listen to those individuals who are familiar with or specialized in stroke rehabilitation. This includes not only the healthcare team but also other stroke survivors and their family. Ask questions, stay positive, and stay in the course!

Sources:
National Stroke Association