What are common challenges with self-advocacy?

Not knowing what you need Feeling embarrassed to ask for help Others not understanding your needs Not knowing how to explain things

What can I try to help with self-advocacy?

Create a "user manual for me" — a simple document that lists: how your brain works best, what helps you, what makes things harder, and what accommodations you need. Share it with teachers at the start of each year. Practise one self-advocacy sentence until it feels natural: "I focus better when I can [move/use headphones/sit at the front/have written instructions]. Could we try that?" Rehearse it out loud until you can say it without overthinking. If speaking up feels too hard, write it down instead. A note that says "I need more time on tests because I process information slowly" is just as valid as saying it aloud. Learn the phrase: "I am not asking for special treatment — I am asking for equal access." This reframes accommodations correctly: they level the playing field, not tilt it in your favour. Connect with other neurodivergent young people who self-advocate — hearing how others do it makes it feel more normal and gives you ideas for your own approach.

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Self-Advocacy

Speaking up for your needs

1 min read

Learning to understand and communicate your needs is one of the most important skills you can develop.

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