Deaf People Have More Mental Health Problems, Less Access to Care

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I am blessed that I can talk very well and sign. Having said that, it gives me the ability to have an option of seeing a therapist that knows sign or not. Growing up in the Deaf/HOH education system and the deaf community understanding that "everyone knows everyone." Rumors are likely to happen and I have been encountered with several rumors that impacted me that I wanted to keep it confidential. Do you understand why my trust level is extremely low when it comes to therapists that knows sign? Consulting with a therapist that have no connection to the Deaf Community gives me a sense of confidence that I can focus on what I need to work on. Sad but true.

Chris of IL 1:17PM February 21, 2013

There are many Deaf clincial counselors who have earned their licenses yet hardly anyone is hiring them to work with Deaf patients/clients in the mental health centers. I'm sorry to say that I do not think hiring an interpreter empowers a Deaf patient/client. The best solution is to employ Deaf clinical counselors and those who are fluent in ASL. Ultimately, signing is a human right for ALL deaf babies, they will grow up free of mental issues.

Patricia Raswant of VA 8:49AM June 22, 2012

The reason for most of the mental issues is due to the fact that Deaf children are commonly abused by withholding sign language and participation in a fully accessible Deaf community.
Dr. Paddy Ladd in his book "Understanding Deaf Culture: in Search for Deafhood" lays out the domino effect upon Deaf children every where around the world.
The sicking thing is: it's still happening under the blessings of the government everywhere. Deaf adults who learn signs never leave that method to go back to oralism - but many Deaf adults leave oralism to learn signs.

Jenny Witteborg of VA 6:43PM June 21, 2012

We don't have MORE health problems per capita compared to hearing counterparts. Most of problems stem from AUDISM (Oppression). Simple as that! That statement alone is of Audism.

Proud_Deaf of DC 4:40PM April 19, 2012

Two of my brothers are Deaf,...unfortunately this article is very true. It has been very disturbing for me to witness not only the lack of communication in health care, but law enforcement professionals also. I honestly can't believe that highly educated professionals shrug off Deaf patients rather than get a certified interpreter! I've been shocked to see nurses scream at my brother...when in thier field the word deaf should be understood!I have seen much damage done in the process of getting my brother much needed mental health treatment with health professionals and law enforcement. It has and always will be a fight to have a certified interpreter for health care. Although I have signed many times, Deaf people need professional interpreters in serious situations,....and unfortunately officials do not want to be bothered in the process of providing one.

Kathleen Maiolie of PA 1:14PM March 18, 2012