The life-changing impact of hearing loss
Was your hearing loss life-changing? Mine certainly was, and it's not surprising really. Our hearing plays a big part in the way we interact with the world. Before my hearing loss, I relied on my hearing, without realising its value.
My crystal clear bilateral hearing enabled me to detect and locate the smallest of utterances in my classroom. Conversation came easily, without struggle or strain. Overlapping voices or background music didn’t bother me and didn't impact my ability to socialise.
My hearing enabled me to enjoy live music without sensitivity. With my two ears working in unison, I could walk down any street and hear if someone called my name and even from which direction they called me. I felt safe and confident in my surroundings, knowing my ears would alert me to any danger.
How my hearing loss impacted my identity
Of course, some challenges came with my hearing loss. My hearing loss happened suddenly, meaning I had no time to prepare for it. Initially, I didn't know how to deal with the practical and emotional impacts of hearing loss on my everyday life.
In the early days following my loss, I lost self-confidence and struggled with identity issues: Who was I with hearing loss? It took time for me to figure this out. The things I once enjoyed, such as going to live music events, now came with the worry of further loss and managing a sensitivity to sound meant that noisy events were not so easy to navigate.
A couple of years into living with hearing loss, my associated balance issues got the better of me. The busy classroom with abundant noise and visual stimuli served as a trigger, causing increased tinnitus, instability and a permanent headache and pressure—it was no longer a safe place for me to work. I sadly ended my teaching career of 14 years and was left again wondering: Who am I? I had spent my whole working life devoted to teaching. My pupils were at the centre of my world, and my education was my passion.
Reevaluating my life
As often happens following a significant life event, I was compelled to take some time to reflect on my life. I had so many questions: Who am I as someone with hearing loss? Who do I want to be? What options do I have? What is important to me on my hearing loss journey?
With time, contemplation, and a desire to not give up, I began to work through my feelings and make some changes to my life, which enabled me to craft a positive way forward.
Discovering a new me through writing
Through keeping a blog, I developed a love of writing. I doubt I would have ever allowed myself time to begin a blog, or even have the inclination to, had I not experienced a hearing loss.
Typewriter with “Write Something” typed on paper. Image by Markus Winkler from Pixabay
Not only did I find writing therapeutic, but through sharing my story with others, I also started to realise the power of making connections with people living similar experiences.
I found a new purpose. I became passionate about advocating for people with hearing loss and promoting deaf awareness.
Crafting a new career
Though I ended a career I loved, I found a new purpose and passion in supporting others in their hearing loss experiences.
I created a Facebook community for people with hearing loss—a place for people to share their stories, ask each other questions and offer support and advice. I also founded a support website for people affected by sudden hearing loss.
The more time I devoted to the world of hearing loss and rehabilitation, the more interested I became. I was passionate about supporting people in moving forward with their hearing health conditions, and I trained as a transformational coach to turn this interest into a career.
Now, armed with a toolkit of coaching skills and techniques, I help people, just like me, with hearing health issues make exciting changes in their lives.
Listening to my body
On reflection, I realised that I had put my career before my health for many years. I worked on listening to my body more; If I needed to rest, I took time to do so. This is an ongoing goal and a challenge for me—being a teacher, I was so used to persevering even when I wasn't feeling well. It will be a while before I am completely comfortable with allowing myself time to rest.
Uncovering a new love of sound
I took my hearing for granted. I never once contemplated what a wonderful sense my hearing was until I lost half of it.
Sand and sea. Image by David Mark from Pixabay
Now, I treasure my remaining hearing, which allows me to hear the voices of my loved ones, enjoy my favourite songs, and listen to the relaxing sounds of the sea. It’s not the same as it used to be with two ears, but I am thankful for my right ear which still has good hearing.
Moving forward with positivity
Though I have encountered numerous challenges on my hearing loss journey, I prefer to focus on the positives that have come with my hearing loss, after all, it’s here to stay.
In assessing my strengths, values and resources, and addressing my concerns and insecurities, I emerged from my hearing loss experience feeling empowered!
Now, your turn! Has your hearing loss brought any positives to your life? Please share in the comments section below.
