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Dear Community Partners,
I’m excited to share that Governor Josh Stein has proclaimed September as Deaf Awareness Month in North Carolina. North Carolina is projected to experience a 27 percent increase in adults with hearing loss, from 1.35 million people in 2024 to 1.7 million by 2040. This month, we celebrate the unique culture and identity of the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community and to amplify awareness of the challenges faced by Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and DeafBlind individuals.
This special month is marked by key dates that bring attention to important aspects of the Deaf community:
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International Week of Deaf People: Organized by the World Federation of the Deaf, each day of the week of September 22-28 highlights a specific theme such as sign language rights, education, accessibility, or leadership in the Deaf community.
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International Day of Sign Languages: Celebrated globally, September 23 is a day that emphasizes the importance of sign languages as fundamental to the full realization of human rights for people who are Deaf.
Additionally, it's important to recognize some key mental health challenges faced by individuals with hearing loss:
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A national survey of Deaf adults found that while 63% screened positive for a mental health issue, only 31% were receiving treatment. Major barriers included communication difficulties, lack of culturally appropriate services, and concerns about confidentiality.
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A recent study for anxiety and depression with Deaf adults shows the rate of depression or anxiety disorder is significantly higher for deaf adults compared to hearing adults.
Local events this month include ASL-accessible tours at the NC Museum of Art and open-captioned films at Marbles IMAX Theater in Raleigh. Educational resources, including ASL classes and interpreter directories, are available through the Division of Services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DSDHH).
Let’s also focus on advocating for accessible communication by referring to SAMHSA’s Language Access Plan (LAP). The LAP provides guidelines to improve mental health access for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing population, ensuring that communication barriers are addressed effectively and that all individuals receive the support they need.
During this month, let's commit to enhancing our understanding and support for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community. Whether it’s by learning basic sign language, participating in awareness events, or advocating for accessible communication, each action we take makes a meaningful difference.
Together, we can foster an inclusive environment that values diversity and promotes equal opportunities for all.
My best,
Kelly
Kelly Crosbie, MSW, LCSW
(she/her)
Director
Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Use Services
North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services
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