May is better speech and hearing month!
According to the American speech language hearing association: “Each May, Better Hearing & Speech Month (BHSM) provides an opportunity to raise awareness about communication disorders and role of ASHA members in providing life-altering treatment.”
What happens in May?
Though Better Speech and Hearing month is mainly an awareness campaign, May might also be the best time to get your hearing tested.
“During May, the hearing care industry encourages American citizens to get screened for hearing loss,” says Beltone.
How can you help?
If you have a hearing loss or speech issue, or know someone who does, the most important way you can help is by learning all you can. That’s what this month is about.
For practitioners, ASHA also has some ideas:
1. Reach out to the media
2. Try to organize a state advocacy day
3. Visit schools and discuss communication with kids.
For everyone else:
1. Understand that “most hearing loss and other communication disorders are treatable,” and help spread that knowledge.
2. Find any campaigns that you can help promote, especially in education environments. The American Speech Language Hearing Association’s Listen To Your Buds is one good example of a worthwhile campaign.