Living with SSNHL

[Jasmine WW]

Hi Everyone

I have noticed a lot of people's reasons for learning BSL are out of interest and progression which is really nice to see! I can't say it was something I had ever particularly thought about learning until I suffered from Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SSNHL) earlier this year.

After experiencing severe hearing loss on one side and suddenly struggling with day to day communication it has been quite a shock for me. Although I am able to communicate through speech it is not always easy even with aids especially in busy and loud environments and it can lead me to feeling quite isolated.

From what I can see there is a really supportive and strong community for Deaf people but I haven't managed to speak to many other people who has suffered sudden unilateral hearing loss who are practising switching between speech and BSL as two means of communication - it would be great to speak to anyone who is experiencing something similar to me?

It would be great to connect with anyone who is in the early stages of learning BSL!

Jasmine

[Romeo]

Hi Jasmine

I like you where I have severe hearing loss on my right side (currently wear a hearing aid) and struggling with my left side and currently waiting on a hearing aid for that too.  I also find it difficulty in loud environment (I don't tend to wear my hearing aid when going out as I don't find it helps, more of hinderance) and find it hard hearing what my friends are trying to say.  Thankfully my friends are really acceptable and understanding of my situation.  What I find hard is my work.  I do a lot of audio typing but as you can imagine having a hearing problem is a bit difficult, thankfully I'm managing at the moment.  I've just started BSL last week, its hard work but getting there.