So...for the past four years I have been involved in raising awareness for ALS and recruiting others to do the same. I will go on record here to say, I find it completely ironic that the girl who nearly flunked high school civics has grown up to be the woman who is a staunch advocate for patients who can no longer speak for themselves...go figure!
If you are looking for a way to DO something, (to channel your anger, sadness, or any other strong emotion) I cannot think of a better option than advocacy. But what is advocacy exactly? Here's what I've learned in four years.
What is an advocate?
I have a very well loved copy of Miriam Webster's dictionary, and I found the following definition: "One that supports or promotes the interests of another"What is advocacy?
I believe advocacy is the support and promotion of cause related interests. More specifically research, health and long-term care, caregiver and/or survivor support, at all levels (National, State, Local) of elected government with the intent to influence change. Advocates work to effectively lobby Congress, the White House, and related national organizations, as well as state and federal agencies for funding and support of programs which will benefit patients, victims and/or the families of any given cause.From Wikipedia (an excellent resource!) "Advocacy is the pursuit of influencing outcomes — including public-policy and resource allocation decisions within political, economic, and social systems and institutions — that directly affect people’s current lives. (Cohen, 2001)"
Elected officials, government regulators, insurers and the media play a significant role in our society and certainly in healthcare today! Often, the laws, rules and/or perceptions they create directly influence our day-to-day lives and the medical treatments or financial compensation we receive. However, the majority of decision makers know little about suicide and mental illness, its effects and treatments, primarily in my opinion because they have no personal experience - no context to frame an opinon. That's where advocates step in! Organizations dedicated to mental health, mental illness and suicide prevention seek to increase awareness by encouraging those affected by suicide to become advocates. It is through the voice of patients, family members friends and medical professionals that current, pending and future laws, regulations, policies and perceptions are influenced and ultimately changed.
- Anyone with a commitment to help current and future generations affected by suicide.
- Anyone willing to raise their voice or write a letter to an elected official.
- Anyone willing to make a difference.
- You!
The true strength of an advocacy network is the dedication of the many individuals affected in some way by suicide. Individuals who have made the express decision to make a difference today, so that lives can literally be saved and (just maybe) the future can be brighter for survivors of suicide.
As an advocate, what do you do?
In general, you may be called on to:
- Educate: Tell your story - to the media and/or elected officials
- Act: Write letters or send email correspondence to elected officials
- Participate: Attend the annual National/State Advocacy Day or Public Policy Conference
Once you are an advocate, what is expected?
- Educate yourself – become familiar with the strategy and current objectives of the advocacy program
- Educate others – know your story and share it as needed. Encourage those within your sphere of influence to join you.
- Respond – write or speak when requested and be alert to opportunities where you can educate and inform elected officials concerning suicide.
Next step….take a minute today to learn more about the Advocacy and Public Policy efforts of the following organizations
or Google the following key words - suicide, advocacy, public policy - to find the right opportunity to channel your grief/anger. As always, please share your findings, so that we can all learn!
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