From Patient to Advocate: A Growth Story

Daily writing prompt

Describe a decision you made in the past that helped you learn or grow.

I made a decision in the past that helped me learn and grow. I took my mental health into my own hands and gave myself the diagnosis that professionals have missed for years.

I’ve had my fair share of disappointing experiences with mental health professionals. From therapists to psychiatrists, I’ve always had an issue with their capabilities. The often seem so detached. As if my my concerns were just another item to their to-do list. I genuinely felt like a number, and knew that my needs weren’t being met.

For years, I never received a thorough mental health evaluation. Just your standardized anxiety and depression checklists. But I knew deep down there was more beneath the surface that was being overlooked.

For years, I dealt with individuals who lack empathy and compassion. I felt judged and misunderstood. I learned that I needed to be my own doctor. No one else was going to provide me with the answers I needed. So, I threw myself into hours of research, took credited tests online, and immersed myself in learning everything I could about mental health.

Eventually, I realized that I fit the criteria for autism spectrum disorder. It took me a long time to accept this and truly understand the condition. I learned that it’s indeed a large spectrum, and I was on it. I also found out that I have bipolar and OCD.

The more I read, the more I felt like I was finally putting the puzzle pieces together. I found a community of individuals who, like me, have a unique way of processing the world. This for me was a revelation. A moment that I felt connected and a part of a community that are made up of individuals like me.

It’s much clearer to me now that self-advocacy is vital. Don’t let anyone dismiss your lived experience. Mental health professionals need more empathy, better training, and a genuine commitment to helping their patients.

I learned something important. I can trust myself to make the right decisions regarding my health and well-being. I’m no longer waiting in the wings for someone else to provide the care I need and deserve. Be your own advocate. You’ll see the notice big changes.

“The greatest gift you can give yourself is the courage to understand who you truly are.”