Major Depressive Disorder among Individuals who are Deaf: Implications for Rehabilitation Professionals

Authors

Sandra Hansmann, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Shawn P. Saladin, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Diana M. Fraser-Mendez, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2010

Abstract

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a potentially disabling condition which adversely affects psychosocial functioning in the lives of many people. Individuals who are prelingually and/or profoundly Deaf are especially at risk of misdiagnoses, which in turn may prevent them from receiving the treatment needed to reach their full potential in independent living or vocational rehabilitation. This article reviews general depressive symptomology, followed by a discussion of challenges associated with diagnosing MDD in individuals who are Deaf. Suggestions for therapeutic interventions are also included. The article concludes with a summary of the implications of Deafness and MDD for independent living and vocational rehabilitation.

Recommended Citation

Hansmann, S., Saladin, S. P., & Fraser-Mendez, D. (2010). Major Depressive Disorder among individuals who are deaf: Implications for rehabilitation professionals. Journal of the American Deafness and Rehabilitation Association (JADARA), 44(1), 214-224.