Synopsis
Hearing loss causes emotional distress and can contribute to the development of psychological difficulties, yet emotional and psychological issues are not addressed within current audiology services.
The purpose of this study was to use focus groups with consumer and community representatives to explore how we might improve the provision of support for clients experiencing emotional and psychological issues in relation to their hearing loss.
Consumer and community stakeholder representatives indicate a general desire for hearing health care clinicians to deliver support for the emotional and psychological issues that arise relating to hearing loss.