Deaf Education and Mental Health

Previous research has indicated that deaf and hard of hearing (D/HH) students are more at risk for being identified with mental illness. Unfortunately, research has also indicated deaf educators are ill-equipped to provide the necessary support to these students and their families. This lack of knowledge and confidence to address such problems can and does have detrimental effects on students in and out of the classroom. Students with mental health issues struggle not only cognitively, but also socially and emotionally. To address the issue, a pilot study was conducted to examine deaf educators’ current abilities to work with students with mental health issues. A survey was created seeking educators’ awareness of mental illness in their students, attitudes toward mental health, and view of current practices implemented within their districts to address students with mental health issues. Fourteen teachers responded to the survey. Results found that educators in the deaf education setting perceive mental health to be important and real in their students; however, they feel underprepared to support students and families in such areas