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Deaf Support and Wellbeing

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Deaf Support and Wellbeing

Young deaf individuals are significantly more likely to experience mental health and wellbeing challenges compared to their hearing peers. While studies show that 1 in 4 people in the UK experience mental health issues each year, this statistic rises to around 1 in 2.5 (approximately 40%) within the deaf community. This means deaf individuals are twice as likely to face mental health struggles as hearing individuals. Understanding the connection between deafness and mental health is crucial in ensuring that the community has access to the right support and services.

Ways to help:

If a young deaf person requires support, such as counselling, they can access the college’s counselling services. However, they may need a confidential BSL interpreter to assist with communication during sessions (based on their communication support needs).

In addition, there are free and confidential mental health support services available in London specifically for young deaf people:

  • National Deaf CAMHS: This service provides support for deaf children and young people up to age 18. Referrals can be made by professionals, including teachers and support staff at Shooters Hill. For more details on how to refer and contact information, visit the National Deaf CAMHS page.

  • Sign Health: This service supports deaf people aged 18 and over, offering psychological therapy via confidential video links such as FaceTime or Zoom. All staff are BSL-trained, and many are deaf themselves. Deaf people can self-refer or be referred by a GP or education staff. For more information, visit Sign Health Psychological Therapy.

  • National Deaf Services: Similar to Deaf CAMHS, this service offers support for deaf adults aged 18 and up. For details on how to refer and contact information, visit National Deaf Services.

In Emergency:

If a young deaf person is in immediate crisis (e.g., self-harm or suicidal thoughts), take the following actions:

  • Contact their GP/doctor urgently.

  • Call NHS 111 for immediate advice.

  • Go to the Accident & Emergency department at their nearest hospital.

  • Text DEAF to 85258 for free, immediate support via SHOUT.

Additionally, advice can be sought from the visiting teacher of the deaf or the speech and language therapist supporting Shooters Hill.

 

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