When people lose their hearing, or realise that their hearing is deteriorating, many experience feelings of frustration, depression, anger. Self confidence and self esteem can become seriously eroded.

In order to protect our self esteem we will attribute the problem to others, for example 'they mumble' 'talk too fast' are frequent excuses.

Not coping emotionally with hearing loss is just as damaging to your ability to hear as the auditory damage you have experienced.

If you have not sought medical assistance then this needs to be done as soon as possible. Having a professional assessment of your hearing loss is essential. 'Knowledge is power.' Know what you are dealing with. The extent of the damage, the level of frequency lost, also the prognosis. Questions such as, is the hearing loss stabilised or is it likely to deteriorate further, are issues that need to be addressed.


Step No 1. Denial and negativity.
Do away with Denial. It is your problem, and this has to be acknowledged by you. Just by doing this, lowers the potency of other negative emotions, such as depression and despair that are often experienced.

This is the first step in managing hearing loss.

Step No 2. Assertive Behaviour.
By managing the first step, motivates you to deal with the situation rather than allowing negative emotions to sabotage the quality of your life.

This is where learning to be more assertive, owning the problem to others, asking them to speak slowly or clearly, helps you get to grips with the situation and regain your confidence.

Step No 3. Body Language and physical positioning.
Physical positioning is also very important. Standing or sitting squarely in relation to the speaker or speakers. Ensuring that they can be seen clearly, their facial expressions and hand movements give clues to the nature and content of the communication.

These are just the very first and basic steps that need to be addressed to make the most of the residual hearing you may possess.