Published by Programme B
Dating can be hard. It can be scary opening yourself up to a new person in hopes of finding your soul mate. You stress about what to wear, where to go, and how to act. These are the anxieties everyone deals with while preparing to meet someone new, but if you struggle with hearing loss, you may have added concerns when it comes to dating. You wonder if you’ll be able to communicate effectively and if your hearing issues will turn somebody off. A date at a crowded bar or flirty phone calls can be intimidating if you have difficulty hearing.
You are worthy of finding and enjoying meaningful, fulfilling relationships. Even if your hearing loss creates hurdles, you are capable of jumping over then to find love. You may have to make some adjustments, but you are strong, and when you put your mind to something you make it happen. Here are just a few tips for dating and finding love despite living with hearing loss.
1. Make Peace for Yourself First
Being diagnosed with a hearing disorder can turn your world upside down. Before you consider dating, take the time to figure out your new lifestyle first. Get control of your hearing treatments. Find the closest hearing clinic to you and have a specialist who understands your specific needs. You may need to invest in a hearing aid or other methods to combat tinnitus and other hearing disorders. The best hearing centers will have several resources to help you adjust.
Beyond the physical loss of hearing, this may be a challenging time for your mental health. It’s okay to ask for the support you need while readjusting to life with hearing challenges. Consider joining a peer support group or investing in individual therapy. With the expansion of online and teletherapy, you can even do this from the comfort of your home. Therapy Group of NYC offers great opportunities to get connected with group therapists and a safe space to improve your mental wellness as you work on your hearing healthcare. Plus, a support group can help share their experiences in the dating world as well.
It’s hard to enter a relationship when you’re still figuring out who you are, so be sure you’re comfortable with your own hearing loss before you bring a new person into the equation.
2. Find Appropriate Locations
When it comes to dating while hearing impaired, location is key. It’s okay to take the reigns when deciding on where to meet. Try and find a calm, quiet coffee shop, or suggest a nice walk in the park. Crowded, noisy areas can be problematic, so take away those variables by choosing a place where you’re comfortable communication will be possible.
3. Opt For Video Communication
Dating has gone beyond just meeting in person. With the rise of online dating, it’s not uncommon for two people to speak on the phone before you meet in person. In these cases, try to opt for video communications. That way you can pick up on visual cues and use lip reading to help with your understanding.
4. Be Open About Your Hearing Loss
When you’re dating and getting to know someone, you want to be completely open and honest with them. Take a similar approach when disclosing your hearing loss. The decision is ultimately up to you, but if you’re upfront about your specific needs, your date is more likely to be patient and understanding.
5. Don’t Settle
This advice goes for everyone entering the dating world, but be sure you don’t settle. Living with hearing loss can make you feel isolated and alone, so you may jump at the first chance for a relationship simply because someone showed interest in you. You don’t need to get desperate and fall for the first person you meet. Still take the time to get to know different people and find the perfect relationship for you.