Skip Navigation

Main sections

Skip section navigation (navigation may have changed)

Section navigation

girlshealth.gov logo

http://www.girlshealth.gov/

Illness & disability

Becoming independent

A blind girl sitting on a bench.

Being independent means that you are able to rely on yourself to take actions and make choices. Becoming independent is a process that happens over a time. In fact, this process starts well before you become an adult and will keep going on even after you are an adult. Being independent, even as an adult, doesn’t mean you won’t need help sometimes. For instance, you may need help carrying groceries or caring for yourself if you get sick.

Keep in mind that becoming independent doesn’t happen automatically. You can do things to help develop your independence and plan for your future.

Click on the tabs to the left to learn about taking care of yourself at home, on the road, and more. Read an article about gaining independence as a teen with movement difficulties or other chronic condition.

 

Content last updated February 16, 2011

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office on Women's Health.

top