DeafHealth

During our collaborative efforts between Deaf Aotearoa and DeafHealth, we learned several signs! Can you spot the similarities? 🤟 Stay Informed in ASL: We’ve got you covered! Sign up with your email at deafhealthaccess.org/sign-up or follow us on social media for new and current health updates. #ASL #NZSL #Learn . . . #LearnFromDeafPeople #ASL #Deaf #AmericanSignLanguage #SignLanguage #DeafEcosystem #DeafAwareness #DeafCommunity #DeafPride #DeafCulture #DeafWellness #Communication #Health #Access #ASLVideos #DeafHealth [Video Description: The post has an image of one man and one woman sitting on the chair with blue shading overlaid. The middle has a text bubble that reads “Learn NZSL and ASL” in white text with rose background. In the video: The woman signs ASL and the Man signs NZSL. They take turns signing each word to show the differences between the two sign languages. The words shown are: “Deaf can, health, access, commitment, facetime, Deaf Bing/Bubbah, stop taking/quiet, interesting, emergency, where, what, doctor, interpreter, advocacy, help, and community.”

At DeafHealth, cross-cultural exchanges and information sharing are critical to develop stronger connections between our communities and deepen understanding of our diverse healthcare needs. In New Zealand, DeafHealth and Deaf Aotearoa came together to address common pressure points in healthcare across the lifespan faced by our deaf and hard of hearing communities, such as emergency preparedness, telehealth accessibility, quality data collection, community engagement strategies, and health communication methodologies. To read the full report of the recent cross-cultural exchange in New Zealand, visit https://deafhealthaccess.org/cross-cultural-exchange/ Stay Informed in ASL: We’ve got you covered! Sign up with your email at deafhealthaccess.org/sign-up or follow us on social media for new and current health updates. #CulturalExchange #DeafAotearoa #Global . . . #LearnFromDeafPeople #ASL #Deaf #AmericanSignLanguage #SignLanguage #DeafEcosystem #DeafAwareness #DeafCommunity #DeafPride #DeafCulture #DeafWellness #Communication #Health #Access #ASLVideos #DeafHealth [Video Description: The post has a video thumbnail with blue shading overlaid. The middle has a text bubble that reads “Our diverse communities learn and grow together” in white text with rose background. In the video is a compilation of various brief five second clips of DeafHealth and Deaf Aotearoa’s collaboration during workshops and discussions. [The screen fades to show a thumbnail of a faded white background of a doctor holding hands with another individual] Deaf. Healthy. DeafHealth. Learn more at www.deafhealthaccess.org.]

🚨 New, final rule on Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act effective July 8, 2024 🚨 Remember last fall in 2023 when the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recognized discrimination in healthcare against people with disabilities and released a notice to update Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act? HHS received over 5,000 comments from government officials, healthcare professionals, people with disabilities, and the public. The new final rule went into effect on July 8, 2024. This is a tremendous step forward for strengthening civil rights protections for people with disabilities, finally recognizing and addressing the widespread, pervasive discrimination in healthcare. The last time updates were made to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act was 1977! You can view or download the final rule here through the Federal Register: https://www.federalregister.gov/public-inspection/2024-09237/nondiscrimination-on-the-basis-of-disability-in-programs-or-activities-receiving-federal-financial A fact sheet on the rule is available here: https://www.hhs.gov/civil-rights/for-individuals/disability/section-504-rehabilitation-act-of-1973/part-84-final-rule-fact-sheet/index.html #DisabilityRights #Section504 #EqualAccess . . . #LearnFromDeafPeople #ASL #Deaf #AmericanSignLanguage #SignLanguage #DeafEcosystem #DeafAwareness #DeafCommunity #DeafPride #DeafCulture #DeafWellness #Communication #Health #Access #ASLVideos #DeafHealth [Image description and transcript in the comments]

COVID-19 Focus Group Findings

What do deaf patients do when we may not be able to hear our child’s cough, or even our own breathing? Our latest focus group findings reinforce the importance of healthcare professionals understanding and recognizing our cultural differences, which play a big role in equitable healthcare access for our deaf communities. We received grant funding from the Minnesota Department of Health to investigate and improve access to resources and knowledge on COVID-19 and vaccination for our deaf communities. Read the full report here: https://deafhealthaccess.org/deaf-visual-communication-needs/. Stay Informed in ASL: We’ve got you covered! Sign up with your email at deafhealthaccess.org/sign-up or follow us on social media for new and current health updates. #Research #Accessibility #HealthCare . . . #LearnFromDeafPeople #ASL #Deaf #AmericanSignLanguage #SignLanguage #DeafEcosystem #DeafAwareness #DeafCommunity #DeafPride #DeafCulture #DeafWellness #Communication #Health #Access #ASLVideos #DeafHealth [Video Description: The post has a video thumbnail with blue shading overlaid. The middle has a text bubble that reads “What do our cultural differences look like” in white text with rose background. In the video: A woman with long brown hair and a black shirt faces the camera. Transcript: "Can you show me what that looks like?” Or- “Can you describe what that looks like?” As Deaf patients, we may not be able to hear a child’s cough, or our own breathing, but we can observe our symptoms through sight and touch. Our experience is different. In DeafHealth’s most recent focus group, participants reinforced that Deaf people have visual communication needs. Helping medical and public health officials understand this cultural difference will help us improve our healthcare access. Other meaningful findings from our focus group are in the link in bio or in captions. [The screen fades to show a thumbnail of a faded white background of a doctor holding

You asked, we answered! Join Deaf LEAD and DeafHealth for another conversation about 988 Lifeline, the national three digit 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provided by the federal government. DeafHealth advocates for access in healthcare and Deaf LEAD provides a safe space for anyone in need of support. Deaf LEAD provides 24/7 crisis intervention, advocacy, case management, interpreting, and mental health support services. #988Lifeline #MentalHealth #YouMatter . . . #LearnFromDeafPeople #ASL #Deaf #AmericanSignLanguage #SignLanguage #DeafEcosystem #DeafAwareness #DeafCommunity #DeafPride #DeafCulture #DeafWellness #Communication #Health #Access #ASLVideos #DeafHealth [Video Description: The post has a video thumbnail with a white background. And three teal and blue collored circles. In the middle of a dark teal circle in the center is white text that says “What happens when you call 988?” In the video: two individuals have a conversation with each other. Aylah wears a brown shirt with an orange jacket and gold glasses. Olivia wears a black shirt with the DeafLEAD logo on the right. Transcript: (Aylah) I’m thinking about calling 9-8-8. Does calling them really help? Should I do it? (Olivia) YES! The988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is provided by the federal government for free. Data has shown that after interacting with trained crisis counselors, most callers are less depressed, less at risk of self harm and associated behaviors, less overwhelmed, and more hopeful. Many studies have proven this. In fact, about 98% of the people who reach out to the hotline benefit from the call. They receive support, resources, and connection to local community resources. (Aylah) Do your crisis counselors know how to interact with Deaf callers. (Olivia) Yes! We are trained in cultural competency and we communicate in ASL fluently. Our agents have completed core clinical training and training on standards regarding safety assessment and imminent risk interventions

Do you know someone in crisis?* Here are five steps you can take that are proven to help: 1. Ask. It’s okay to ask questions like, “Are you thinking about self-harm? How do you hurt? How can I help?” 2. Be there. Show support, listen, and connect. 3. Help keep them safe. If the person is in crisis, it’s important to find out if they have a plan or ideas about timing or method. You can call @988Lifeline to support their crisis care. 4. Help them connect with support to establish safety. Remind them about available services, and that they can contact 9-8-8 anytime 24/7, even in ASL. 5. Follow up. Checking in can make a difference. *We are creating a space to have safe discussions about difficult topics. If you have comments, please share with respect and consideration to others. Today, we are grateful to have accessible services like National Deaf Therapy, Deaf LEAD, and Deaf Counseling Center and more. If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to support services such as your physician, the local ER, or the 988 hotline in ASL (https://988lifeline.org/ and click ASL NOW). #988Lifeline #MentalHealth #YouMatter . . . #LearnFromDeafPeople #ASL #Deaf #AmericanSignLanguage #SignLanguage #DeafEcosystem #DeafAwareness #DeafCommunity #DeafPride #DeafCulture #DeafWellness #Communication #Health #Access #ASLVideos #DeafHealth [Video Description: The post has a video thumbnail with a teal shading overlaid. The middle has a text bubble that reads “5 steps to take if someone is in crisis” in white text with rose background. In the video: a young woman with clear glasses wears a dark orange button up shirt. Transcript: Do you have a friend, family, or loved one who is experiencing a crisis? Here are five steps you can take to help. 1. Ask. It’s okay to ask questions like, “Are you thinking about self-harm? How do you hurt? How can I help?” 2. Be there. Whether it’s in person or through the phone, show support, listen, and co

There are a few warning signs for adults and youth if someone is struggling and at risk of self-harm.* The risk can be greater if the behavior is new or has increased, and if it seems related to a painful event, loss, or change. Signs can include: 1. Talking about self-harm and associated behaviors 2. Expressing hopelessness about the future 3. Talking about being a burden to others 4. Displaying severe emotional pain or distress 5. Sleeping too little or too much 6. Withdrawing and becoming isolated 7. Talking about feeling trapped, or unbearable pain 8. Extreme mood swings 9. Increased use of alcohol or drugs *We are creating a space to have safe discussions about difficult topics. If you have comments, please share with respect and consideration to others. Today, we are grateful to have accessible services like National Deaf Therapy, Deaf LEAD , Deaf Counseling Center, and more. If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to support services such as your physician, the local ER, or the 988 hotline in ASL (https://988lifeline.org/ and click ASL NOW). #988Lifeline #MentalHealth #YouMatter . . . #LearnFromDeafPeople #ASL #Deaf #AmericanSignLanguage #SignLanguage #DeafEcosystem #DeafAwareness #DeafCommunity #DeafPride #DeafCulture #DeafWellness #Communication #Health #Access #ASLVideos #DeafHealth [Video Description: The post has a white graphic image thumbnail. In the center of the graphic is an outline of a person's head in teal and light blue. On the top of the graphic, the title is in dark blue “Adult and Youth Warning Signs” Surrounding the head is a variety of colors like blue, pink, dark blue and white text that reads the various signs of suicide in adults and youth. Transcript: There are a few warning signs for adults and youth if someone is struggling and at risk for self-harm and associated behaviors. The risk can be greater if the behavior is new, or has increased, and if it seems related to a painful event,

Based on one theory, there are 6 stages of escalation in reaching the breaking point.* According to Roy Baumiester, a social psychologist, being aware of these stages may help anyone identify when and what kind of support to receive or provide: 1. Trigger 2. Self-blame and shame 3. Isolation 4. Self-destructive behaviors 5. Apathy and numbness 6. Belief in no other options Learn more about Baumiester's clinical research here: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2408091/. Baumiester's model isn’t the only theory, but it offers us one way to understand what to look for. *If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to support services such as your physician, the local ER, or the 988 hotline in ASL (https://988lifeline.org/ and click ASL NOW). #988Lifeline #MentalHealth #YouMatter . . . #LearnFromDeafPeople #ASL #Deaf #AmericanSignLanguage #SignLanguage #DeafEcosystem #DeafAwareness #DeafCommunity #DeafPride #DeafCulture #DeafWellness #Communication #Health #Access #ASLVideos #DeafHealth [Video Description: The post has a video thumbnail with a teal shading overlaid. The middle has a text bubble that reads “Stages of escalation” in white text with rose background. In the video: a young woman with clear glasses wears a white striped shirt. Transcript: How does one reach the breaking point? There are several theories. One explanation is based on Roy Baumiester’s research, shows that there are 6 stages of escalation. At each point of escalation, the severity increases. Individuals can receive help at any stage but knowing these stages may help us understand what kind of support to receive or provide. The six stages are: 1. Trigger. This occurs when someone’s life does not match their expectations. Triggers can be major life changes such as a divorce or job loss. This event leads to the second stage. 2. Shame and self-blame. The individual feels like a failure blaming themselves for what has happened. Self blame leads to the

At DeafHealth, we are all about collaboration and making healthcare more accessible for deaf communities. We team up with YOU to develop tailored training programs, presentations, and workshops. We’re in this together, working towards a more inclusive healthcare for all. 🤟 Interested in learning more about what we do? Sign up with your email at deafhealthaccess.org/sign-up or follow us on social media for new and current health updates. #Trainings #HealthCare #Workshops . . . #LearnFromDeafPeople #ASL #Deaf #AmericanSignLanguage #SignLanguage #DeafEcosystem #DeafAwareness #DeafCommunity #DeafPride #DeafCulture #DeafWellness #Communication #Health #Access #ASLVideos #DeafHealth [Video Description: The post has a video thumbnail with blue shading overlaid. The middle has a text bubble that reads “Community Collaboration at DeafHealth” in white text with rose background. In the video: A young woman in a black dress with her brown hair pulled back looks to the camera with red glasses. Transcript: What does DeafHealth do? We provide workshops, training, and presentations to a wide range of stakeholders, hearing or deaf, such as: healthcare providers, policymakers, government, community advocates, and our deaf peers. Our content typically focuses on: 1) Improving communication and accessibility in healthcare for deaf patients. 2) How to comply with laws and policies in healthcare for deaf patients. 3) specific healthcare topics such as telehealth, health literacy, and so much more. We work with you to achieve awareness and change to break barriers in healthcare. [The screen fades to show a thumbnail of a faded white background of a doctor holding hands with another individual] Deaf. Healthy. DeafHealth. Learn more at www.deafhealthaccess.org.]

Life can get challenging, and it can feel overwhelming sometimes. People connect with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline to get support with a lot of things, including: 🫶 Thoughts of self-harm and other associated behaviors 🫶 Drinking and drug use 🫶 Feeling depressed or anxious 🫶 Identity 🫶 Mental and physical illness 🫶 Loneliness 🫶 Trauma 🫶 Relationships 🫶 Economic worries, and more #988Lifeline #MentalHealth #YouMatter . . . #LearnFromDeafPeople #ASL #Deaf #AmericanSignLanguage #SignLanguage #DeafEcosystem #DeafAwareness #DeafCommunity #DeafPride #DeafCulture #DeafWellness #Communication #Health #Access #ASLVideos #DeafHealth [Video Description: The post has a video thumbnail with a teal shading overlaid. The middle has a text bubble that reads “Reasons to connect and seek help” in white text with rose background. In the video: a young woman with clear glasses wears a dark orange button up shirt. Transcript: Did you know that the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline not there just for a crisis? People call, text, and chat to discuss about a variety of different needs. Everyone has a different mental health journey and life experiences. Common reasons for calling 9-8-8 can include: Relationships, Trauma, Identity struggles, Loneliness, Drinking too much or drug use, Feeling depressed or anxious, and more. Whatever your reason, 9-8-8 is there to help, available in ASL directly with a trained counselor. [The screen fades to show a thumbnail of a faded white background of a doctor holding hands with another individual] Deaf. Healthy. DeafHealth. Learn more at www.deafhealthaccess.org.]

Ever wonder what happens when you dial 9-8-8? Join DeafLEAD and DeafHealth in a conversation about @988lifeline the three digit 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provided by the federal government. Have more questions for us? Comment below! DeafHealth advocates for access in healthcare and DeafLEAD provides a safe space for anyone in need of support. Deaf LEAD provides 24/7 crisis intervention, advocacy, case management, interpreting, and mental health support services. #988Lifeline #MentalHealth #YouMatter

May is National Mental Health Awareness Month. Made possible by Direct Video Calling (DVC) technology, any Deaf or hard of hearing individual can contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline directly in American Sign Language by dialing 9-8-8. If someone is experiencing difficult thoughts, a mental health crisis, or a substance abuse crisis, they can access the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in several ways to receive support: 1. Videophone: Dial 988 on your VP.* 2. Desktop or Laptop: Visit 988’s webpage for Deaf and Hard of Hearing users (https://988lifeline.org/help-yourself/for-deaf-hard-of-hearing/) and scroll down to find the ASL Now button. 3. Chat or Text: Visit 988’s webpage for chat and text (https://988lifeline.org/chat/) and follow the instructions to start a conversation with your preferred chat method. *Make sure that your videophone is updated. Need help on how to update your software and platforms? Please contact your videophone provider through their customer care team, such as Sorenson, Convo, ZVRS, Purple VRS #988Lifeline #MentalHealth #YouMatter . . . #LearnFromDeafPeople #ASL #Deaf #AmericanSignLanguage #SignLanguage #DeafEcosystem #DeafAwareness #DeafCommunity #DeafPride #DeafCulture #DeafWellness #Communication #Health #Access #ASLVideos #DeafHealth [Video Description: The post has a video thumbnail with a teal shading overlaid. The middle has a text bubble that reads “What is 988?” in white text with rose background. In the video: a young woman with clear glasses wears a white striped shirt. Transcript: What is 988? It’s the national 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline service provided by the federal government for free. If you need support when you are facing difficult thoughts and emotions, mental health struggles, or substance abuse crises, 988 is available to support you. You can call or text 988 anytime. 988 is available 24/7! Wonderful, right? How do you connect with a crisis counselor directly in ASL? You can c

Are you having a hard time sleeping lately? Your bedtime routine signals to your body that it’s time to unwind and sleep! A bedtime routine can help you sleep earlier, faster, and longer. Try some of these ideas! -Turning off screens for 30 minutes to 1 hour before bed. -Drink herbal teas -Read a book -Journal -Meditate -Stretching -Baths Anything goes, as long as it is relaxing and soothing. The goal is to unwind! 🤟 Stay Informed in ASL: We’ve got you covered! Sign up with your email at deafhealthaccess.org/sign-up or follow us on social media for new and current health updates. #sleeptips #bedtime #DeafHealth .� . . #LearnFromDeafPeople #ASL #Deaf #AmericanSignLanguage #SignLanguage #DeafEcosystem #DeafAwareness #DeafCommunity #DeafPride #DeafCulture #DeafWellness #Communication #Health #Access #ASLVideos [Video Description: The post has a video thumbnail with blue shading overlaid. The top middle has “A bedtime routine is important!” in white text with a rose background. In the video: there is a young woman with brown curly hair in a ponytail wearing pajamas. She carries a book and a pink mug. She is snuggled up in a bed with orange striped comforters and pillows with a cream-colored crocheted blanket on the bottom and cream-colored sheets. Transcript: [The woman gets into bed. She says nothing, she is just going through the motions of a bedtime routine. The text above reads:] Your bedtime routine can help improve your sleep. Pick small habits to help your body know when it’s time to unwind. Here are some ideas for your bedtime routine. Turn off screens for about 30 minutes to 1 hour. Drink herbal teas. Read a book, journal, or meditate. Baths or stretching can also help improve sleep and relaxation. A bedtime routine can help you sleep earlier, faster, and longer. [She gets out of bed. The lights turn off] Sleep tight. [The screen fades to show a thumbnail of a faded white background of a doctor holding hands with anot

Co-creating the future of healthcare is 🔑 to equitable access for deaf and hard of hearing communities. Today, DeafHealth unveils its most recent Findings from focus groups in Minnesota examining what our communities need in public health crises, specifically vaccine experiences. We found three consistent cultural needs: 1️. Need for tailored, accessible communication strategies. 2. Standardized access to accommodations and interpreters. 3. Desire for consistent and current information. We received grant funding from the Minnesota Department of Health to investigate and improve access to resources and knowledge on COVID-19 and vaccination for our deaf communities. Read the full report here https://deafhealthaccess.org/future-expectations-pandemic-deaf #Research #Accessibility #HealthCare . . . #LearnFromDeafPeople #ASL #Deaf #AmericanSignLanguage #SignLanguage #DeafEcosystem #DeafAwareness #DeafCommunity #DeafPride #DeafCulture #DeafWellness #Communication #Health #Access #ASLVideos #DeafHealth [Video Description: The post has a video thumbnail with blue shading overlaid. The middle has a text bubble that reads “What do we need for future crises?” in white text with rose background. In the video: A woman with long brown hair pulled back and a black shirt faces the camera. Transcript: I love our focus groups. That opportunity to sit down with a group, engage, listen, consider different perspectives, identify consistencies, and witness our beautiful communities. DeafHealth prioritizes focus groups and community listening. We just published the findings report of our most recent focus group in Minnesota. We found three powerful themes: Theme 1: Need for tailored, accessible communication strategies catered to our community needs. Theme 2: Standardized access to interpreters and accommodations. Theme 3: Desire for consistent and current information. Curious to learn more? Click the link below or sign up for updates to participate in the n

Making plans with friends is not just about fun – they're stress-busters, happiness boosters, and good for your health. Tag your friends, make plans for this weekend! 👯‍♀️ 🤟Stay Informed in ASL: We’ve got you covered! Sign up with your email at deafhealthaccess.org/sign-up or follow us on social media for new and current health updates. #HealthTips #StressManagement #SelfCare #StayBalanced #DeafHealth . . . #ASL #Deaf #AmericanSignLanguage #SignLanguage #DeafEcosystem #DeafAwareness #DeafCommunity #DeafPride #DeafCulture #DeafWellness #Communication #Health #Access #ASLVideos Video Description: The post has a video thumbnail with blue shading overlaid. The top middle has “Connect with your friends!” in white text with a rose background. In the video: A young woman with brown shoulder length curly hair is sitting in front of the camera with shelves, books, and decorative items behind her. She is wearing a blue t-shirt with clear rimmed glasses. Transcript: I just texted my friend to make plans for this weekend! Why? Socialization is so important for stress management, community, and a sense of belonging, and support for overall happiness. Humans are social creatures! So, what are you waiting for? Text a friend and make plans for this weekend! [The screen fades to show a thumbnail of a faded white background of a doctor holding hands with another individual] Deaf. Healthy. DeafHealth. Learn more at www.deafhealthaccess.org.]

Topics covered: C-Section & Interpreters Maria did everything right. She prepared accommodations and had everything set for her upcoming C-section. But when an emergency happened, she was left without an interpreter. Healthcare can be unpredictable, but patients like Maria shouldn’t have to bear the burden and solve these issues on their own. ✍️ Interested in sharing your healthcare story with us? You can share here: deafhealthaccess.org/impact-story. #HealthAccess #DeafAwareness #Accessibility . . . #LearnFromDeafPeople #ASL #Deaf #AmericanSignLanguage #SignLanguage #DeafEcosystem #DeafCommunity #DeafPride #DeafCulture #DeafWellness #Communication #Health #Access #ASLVideos [Video Description: The post has a video thumbnail with rose shading overlaid. The middle has a text bubble that reads “I did everything right...and it still didn’t work out” in white text with blue background. In the video: A woman with shoulder length dark brown hair wears a dark green long sleeve shirt. Transcript: I struggled to become pregnant and went through a few losses. Finally, one day I became pregnant with my son. I had some health risks, so it was determined that a c-section was the best option for me. We set an appointment with the hospital and I worked with them to schedule an interpreter. Everything was organized and planned. Everything felt ready. Unexpectedly, I went into labor earlier. We went to the hospital, requested an interpreter, and the doctors prepped me for surgery. After an hour, the interpreter arrived. I noticed that the interpreter was struggling to understand and interpret. That Interpreter admitted to me that they never experienced interpreting in a hospital before. I informed the doctor I wasn’t comfortable proceeding with this interpreter and to please request a new one. After several hours of labor, and still no interpreter showed up. I went ahead and reached out to my friends, my child’s father reached out to his friends,

We recognize that Deaf people are already advocates. We advocate for ourselves every day and especially for healthcare; but it’s exhausting, and we shouldn’t have to. DeafHealth wants to change that narrative. 🤟 Stay Informed in ASL: We’ve got you covered! Sign up with your email at deafhealthaccess.org/sign-up or follow us on social media for new and current health updates. #Advocacy #Deaf #Access . . . #LearnFromDeafPeople #ASL #Deaf #AmericanSignLanguage #SignLanguage #DeafEcosystem #DeafAwareness #DeafCommunity #DeafPride #DeafCulture #DeafWellness #Communication #Health #Access #ASLVideos #DeafHealth [Video Description: The post has a video thumbnail with blue shading overlaid. The middle has a text bubble that reads “Deaf people are advocates” in white text with rose background. In the video: A young woman with brown curly hair is standing in front of the camera with a green couch and decorative items behind her. She is wearing a black dress with clear-framed glasses. Transcript: Deaf people are ALREADY advocates. We advocate for ourselves everyday. We always enter the doctor’s office mentally preparing to navigate a system that is not accommodating to our needs. We know that we have to bear the burden of educating, reminding them, and enforcing our rights. Maybe this feels normal to us, because we deal with this everyday. But it’s not, and it’s wrong. [The screen fades to show a thumbnail of a faded white background of a doctor holding hands with another individual] Deaf. Healthy. DeafHealth. Learn more at www.deafhealthaccess.org.]

We are DeafHealth and we are here to make waves 🌊 Join our cause by signing up with your email at deafhealthaccess.org/sign-up or follow us on social media for new and current health updates at @deafhealthaccess. 🤟 #DeafHealth #HealthCareAccess #DeafCulture . . . #LearnFromDeafPeople #ASL #Deaf #AmericanSignLanguage #SignLanguage #DeafEcosystem #DeafAwareness #DeafCommunity #DeafPride #DeafWellness #Communication #Health #Access #ASLVideos [Video Description: The post has a video thumbnail with teal background. The middle has a white text bubble that reads “Join DeafHealth” in Rose, light blue, and dark blue font. On top of the thumbnail are three images of 3 women who represent DeafHealth. In the video: the camera cuts between three different women signing to the camera. The first is a woman with brown curly hair and a black dress with clear rimmed glasses. The second woman is a woman with long blonde hair and a black shirt. The third woman has long brown hair and wears a blazer. Transcript: (First woman) Access in healthcare for deaf communities needs to change. (Second woman) We are ready to lead that change. (Third woman) We are rolling our sleeves and actively participating in that change. Join us. [The screen fades to show a thumbnail of a faded white background of a doctor holding hands with another individual] Deaf. Healthy. DeafHealth. Learn more at www.deafhealthaccess.org.].

Topics covered: Cancer, Caretakers & Interpreters While her husband underwent major surgery and treatment for cancer, Gina was left behind with very little access throughout their entire hospital stay. Federal law generally requires equitable communication for patients’ families and caregivers too. Here is her full story: https://deafhealthaccess.org/interpreter-medical-deaf-family/ ✍️ Interested in sharing your healthcare story with us? You can share here: www.deafhealthaccess.org/impact-story #HealthAccess #DeafAwareness #Accessibility . . . #LearnFromDeafPeople #ASL #Deaf #AmericanSignLanguage #SignLanguage #DeafEcosystem #DeafCommunity #DeafPride #DeafCulture #DeafWellness #Communication #Health #Access #ASLVideos [Video Description: The post has a video thumbnail with rose shading overlaid. The middle has a text bubble that reads “Excluded and left behind” in white text with blue background. In the video: A woman with shoulder length curly hair wears a grey t-shirt. Transcript: 3 years ago in 2021, my husband was diagnosed with cancer. At the end of his journey, he needed major surgery, which included long-term stay. We chose one of the top hospitals in the world, it was the best in their field. The care and service was wonderful for my husband. But for me, I struggled the entire week for access to communication. I couldn’t communicate with the doctor or his surgeons. I couldn’t communicate with his nurses, or any of the specialists we saw. I felt so excluded. I didn’t feel welcome. They told me: “You are just family. You are not the patient, and we are not required to provide services for you.” It was so dehumanizing, [The screen fades to show a thumbnail of a faded white background of a doctor holding hands with another individual] Deaf. Healthy. DeafHealth. Learn more at www.deafhealthaccess.org.]

Still struggling with symptoms post-COVID-19? You might be dealing with Long COVID. Long COVID is when symptoms last long after the initial infection, even months after recovery. Common Symptoms: • Constant fatigue • Shortness of breath • Brain fog • Muscle and joint pain • Loss of taste/smell • Heart palpitations What to do if you think you’ve got Long COVID? 1️⃣ Consult your doctor: Share your symptoms with them. 2️⃣ Rest and slow down: Don't overexert; prioritize self-care. 3️⃣ Nutrition and hydration: Eat well, stay hydrated. 4️⃣ Mental health matters: Seek support for your mental well-being. 🤟 Stay Informed in ASL: We’ve got you covered! Sign up with your email at deafhealthaccess.org/sign-up or follow us on social media for new and current health updates. #COVID19 #LongCOVID #StaySafe #DeafHealth . . . #ASL #Deaf #AmericanSignLanguage #SignLanguage #DeafEcosystem #DeafAwareness #DeafCommunity #DeafPride #DeafCulture #DeafWellness #Communication #Health #Access #ASLVideos [Video Description: The post has a video thumbnail with blue shading overlaid. The top middle has “Do you have LONG Covid? in white text with rose background. In the video: A young woman with brown shoulder length curly hair is sitting in front of the camera with shelves, books, and decorative items behind her. She is wearing a blue velvet shirt with clear framed glasses. Transcript: Have you been sick with COVID? Do you still feel symptoms since then? It may be Long COVID. What’s Long COVID? Long COVID is when you still have the symptoms even past the time of infection, even months later. Long COVID can be unpredictable and challenging. Common symptoms may look like: Constant fatigue, shortness of breath, brain fog, muscle and joint pain, loss of taste/smell, and heart palpitations. What should you do if you think you have Long COVID? 1. Ask your doctor and share your experience/symptoms. 2. Rest and prioritize self care. 3. Eat and drink w