Deaf Mental Health in Europe

Good mental health means feeling well in your mind and life. For deaf people, it can be harder to get the right support. This article explains what mental health is, the main challenges for deaf people in Europe, and ways to get help.

What Is Mental Health?

Mental health is our ability to think clearly ,ability to regulate strong emotions, and connect with others. It helps us cope with stress and make good choices.

Why Deaf People Face Extra Barriers

Deaf people often meet obstacles that affect their mental health:

Communication gaps: Doctors and therapists may not speak sign language. This makes explaining feelings difficult[1].
Isolation: Many deaf people feel alone when family or friends cannot sign.
Lack of information: Mental-health guides and websites are rarely in sign languages[2].
Few trained professionals: There are too few therapists who know sign language and Deaf culture[3].

Because of these barriers, deaf people have higher rates of anxiety and depression than hearing people[1].

Services and Support in Europe

Different countries offer specialist services for deaf people:

Netherlands – GGMD and Doof & Co provide mental-health care and social support in Dutch Sign Language. GGMD also runs group workshops on stress management and better communication[4].
United Kingdom – SignHealth offers therapy in British Sign Language (BSL). The NHS also funds BSL counselling[5].
Slovakia – The Association of the Deaf of Slovakia (ANEPS) gives free social counselling[6][7].
Europe-wide – The European Society for Mental Health and Deafness (ESMHD) connects experts and hosts conferences on best practices[8]. In April 2024, EFHOH and ZDGNS held a conference in Slovenia on hearing loss and mental health, calling for EU action on inclusion[9].

How to Get Help

Here are ways deaf people can find support:

Look for Deaf-aware therapists who use sign language.
Use video counselling services that support sign language.
Ask for a qualified interpreter with mental-health experience.
Join peer groups or student associations to share experiences.

Building an Inclusive Future

Breaking down stigma is vital. Sometimes people feel ashamed to talk about their own mental health. But mental health problems are common and nothing to be embarrassed about. Talking openly helps more people get the support they need, and feel less alone.

Taking care of mental health is as important as caring for your body and mind. If you are deaf and living in Europe, organisations are ready to help you. Reach out to local Deaf associations or mental health providers who specialise in working with deaf people. There are people who understand and want to support you.