Supported Decision-Making is just a fancy way of saying how we all make choices. We all need help making decisions, every single day. Think about it: when the doctor says something in jargon, like you have a “somatic injury” or a “brachial obstruction,” what do you do? When you don’t know the difference between “itemized” and “standard” deductions, how can you file your tax return? When the mechanic says your car has a “blown head gasket,” how do you know whether to pay for repairs?
You probably ask someone you know for advice, to help you understand what’s going on and what you need to do. We’re all taught that from our childhood: when you don’t know enough to make a good decision, find people who can help you.
When you do that, you’re using Supported Decision-Making. You’re getting the help you need and want so you can make the decisions you have to make.