In this insightful guest blog post, Joslyn Chaiprasert-Paguio, Senior Acquisitions Editor at Elsevier, shares her health advocacy experience following a difficult medical diagnosis. She’s offering ten practical tips based on her experiences to encourage others to take charge of their health while emphasizing the transformative power of self-advocacy.
Taking charge of your health can seem overwhelming, especially when you or your loved one have to contend with a diagnosis or treatment plan that’s new and unfamiliar. I found this out firsthand in 2002 when I was diagnosed with HPV and then Cervical Cancer, conditions I knew nothing about. My diagnosis was a wake-up call for me, and I quickly recognized that I had to be my own advocate to understand my diagnosis and what was happening to my body. That moment set me on a path that ultimately saved my life.
From my journey, I’ve learned that being informed and proactive about your health is one of the most empowering steps you can take. Here are ten steps I’ve taken to advocate for my health that can help you, too.
1. Educate Yourself
Knowledge is power! Take the time to research your health condition, understand treatment options, and familiarize yourself with potential side effects. The more you know, the better equipped you are to make informed decisions regarding your treatment.
2. Make an Appointment
We always find excuses not to see the doctor, but it can save your life. Regular check-ups and timely appointments lead to early detection. My routine screenings helped catch my cancer early, and I’m here today because of them.
3. Ask Questions
Never hesitate to ask about your diagnosis, treatment plan, or prognosis. Your healthcare provider is there to help you, and remember, the more you know, the better, as mentioned above.
4. Share Your Concerns and Feelings
Being open with my doctor about my worries and emotions made a huge difference. It helped build a bond between us. Consider your doctor as your partner in your health. Don’t hesitate to voice what’s on your mind, even if it’s difficult. Your doctor is there to help you, and understanding your concerns is a part of support.
5. Ask for Options and Seek a Second Opinion
If you’re ever uncertain about your doctor’s recommendations, don’t hesitate to ask for other options. Explore all available choices to find what feels right for you. And if you’re still unsure, there’s absolutely no shame in seeking a second opinion. In my own experience, getting a second opinion helped me better understand my diagnosis and treatment options, giving me the confidence I needed to make informed decisions. Your health is too important to settle, so always feel empowered to explore different options.
6. Breathe
Being faced with an uncertain diagnosis can be overwhelming, stressful, and make you feel powerless. Remember that mindful breathing, even for a few minutes, can help calm your nerves and allow you to think more clearly when faced with tough decisions.
7. Share with Your Inner Circle and Recruit a Support Squad
You don’t have to go through your health journey alone. I leaned on my family, friends, and colleagues every step of the way, and having them by my side made all the difference. Building a strong support system is essential, whether it’s sharing what you’re going through, asking for help with daily tasks, or simply having someone to listen. Your health journey will feel much more manageable with the right people by your side.
8. Be Present
Sometimes, I would leave appointments feeling overwhelmed by all the information. It’s easy to get lost in the details, especially when things are moving quickly. One trick that really helped me was taking notes during appointments. Consider asking if you can record the conversation so you can listen again later. Even better, bring a trusted person with you to help you listen and take notes. Staying engaged and present during your visits ensures you don’t miss important details that could make all the difference in your care.
9. Take Care of Yourself, Mind, Body, and Soul
Taking care of yourself is about more than just medical treatments. You also need to make sure to nurture your mind, body, and spirit as well. Whether through exercise, reading, or taking time for yourself, it’s important to prioritize self-care.
10. Join a Support Group
I found such strength in connecting with others who’d been through similar experiences. Talking with people who understand your struggles can provide hope and be incredibly healing. If you’re facing a health challenge, consider joining a support group where you can find community, advice, and encouragement.
Taking these steps helped me become an active participant in my health journey—and I’m still here today because of the choices I made. Remember, your voice is powerful, and advocating for yourself is key to achieving the best possible outcomes. Whether you’re navigating a new diagnosis or just trying to stay well, these strategies can help you face it all with confidence and strength.
About the Author
Joslyn Chaiprasert-Paguio is a Senior Books Acquisitions Editor who’s been with Elsevier since 2007, along with being a Cervivor Ambassador & Podcast Host since 2022, where she shares her personal stories of triumph and resilience while providing valuable resources to listeners worldwide.
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