The frequency of severely or profoundly deaf
people across the world is 7 out of every 10,000 individuals. According to a review published by Dr.
Johannes Fellinger and colleagues, it was found that deaf children in
particular who unable to convey their thoughts to others, are more likely
to suffer from mental health disorders. These children are often predisposed to
mistreatment as they are unable to properly communicate their pathos.
It was
seen that deaf girls were twice more likely and deaf boys were thrice more
likely at the risk of sexual abuse in comparison to those who can hear.
The study
highlighted the ineptness of deaf people in accessing the health services and
information. They had fear, frustration and mistrust in seeking healthcare
services.
Deafness has
far-reaching consequences on cognitive, social and emotional development of an
individual.
Dr.
Johannes Fellinger said, "Improved access to health and mental health care can
be achieved by specialist services with professionals trained to directly communicate
with deaf people and with sign-language interpreters."
As per
the U.S. research, it was seen that around 25 percent of deaf students have
learning disabilities, visual impairment, autism and developmental delay.
Communication
is a two-way process and essential for socializing. Man, being a social animal,
needs to have proper and adequate communication to thrive in the society. It is
imperative to realize that deaf people have an equal need and requirement to
communicate as everyone else.
The researchers
said that the patients of the deaf community require good healthcare services
and proper communication as any non-deaf individual.
Owing to the
difficulty in providing proper healthcare services and the scarcity of
treatment facilities, majority of deaf people are unable to gain access to
qualified sign-language interpreters and good treatment. This accounts for the
prevalence of mental health problems in deaf people.
The review has
analyzed the related factors and laid stress on the heterogeneity of the mental
problem. This may help the clinicians in comprehending deaf patients
individually. The review has also highlighted the importance of preventive
measures. Steps should be taken to prevent the abuse of deaf children.
Hearing screening of the newborn helps the
parents in establishing good communication with their deaf children early and
could reduce mental health problems in later life.
Reference:
Mental health of deaf people; Dr.Johannes
Fellinger et al; The Lancet, Volume 379, Issue 9820, Pages 1037 -
1044, 17 March 2012.
Source: Medindia
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