Understanding Suicidality in the Deaf Community and Codas: A Call for Research and Action

By Joy Plote, Coda Counselor | The Space Between

Suicide is a public health crisis that affects all communities, but Deaf individuals and Children of Deaf Adults (Codas) face unique challenges that elevate their risks. Despite these vulnerabilities, significant gaps exist in our understanding of suicidality within these populations. This blog explores what we know, what remains to be uncovered, and why we urgently need more research and tailored interventions.

The Deaf Community: Alarming Rates of Suicidality

Research consistently shows that individuals who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing (D/HH) experience higher rates of suicidal ideation and attempts compared to the hearing population. Studies have found that:

• D/HH college students are more than twice as likely to have attempted suicide in the past year compared to their hearing peers.

• Lifetime rates of attempted suicide among D/HH individuals range as high as 30% in some studies.

• Deaf women, in particular, report significantly elevated rates of suicidal behavior, with some studies finding them 3.3 times more likely to attempt suicide than their hearing counterparts.

The reasons for these heightened rates are complex and multifaceted. Contributing factors include communication barriers, social isolation, discrimination, and limited access to mental health services that are culturally and linguistically appropriate. Deaf individuals often face difficulties accessing care, including a lack of mental health professionals fluent in sign language or trained to work with Deaf clients.

The Coda Experience: An Unseen Gap

While the experiences of Codas differ from those of Deaf individuals, they are not without their own challenges. Codas navigate between Deaf and hearing worlds, often acting as interpreters and mediators for their Deaf parents. This responsibility can lead to stress, feelings of isolation, and a unique form of intergenerational trauma.

Unfortunately, there is little research specifically addressing suicidality or mental health outcomes for Codas. This gap perpetuates the misconception that Codas are unaffected because they can hear, overlooking the emotional burden of their unique roles. Codas’ mental health is also influenced by family dynamics, communication barriers, and their sense of belonging in both the Deaf and hearing communities.

Why Are the Rates Higher?

The elevated rates of suicidality in the Deaf community and the lack of data on Codas demand further exploration. Here are some critical factors:

1. Communication Barriers:

   • For Deaf individuals, a lack of fluent communication with family members can lead to feelings of isolation and frustration.

   • Codas often feel the burden of being the primary communicator between their Deaf parents and the hearing world, which can cause stress and overwhelm.

2. Social Isolation:

   • Many Deaf individuals experience exclusion due to communication challenges in educational, professional, and social settings.

   • Codas may struggle with a sense of not fully belonging to either the Deaf or hearing communities.

3. Access to Mental Health Services:

   • Mental health services tailored to the Deaf community are scarce, with a lack of sign-fluent professionals.

   • Codas, as a group, are often overlooked in mental health research and services, leaving their unique needs unmet.

4. Stigma and Discrimination:

   • Both communities face societal stigma—Deaf individuals for their disability, and Codas for their proximity—which can exacerbate mental health struggles.

The Need for Research and Tailored Tools

Despite the alarming statistics, comprehensive research on suicidality in the Deaf community and among Codas is lacking. Without accurate data, it is challenging to develop effective interventions. We need:

1. Culturally and Linguistically Adapted Measures:

   • Existing tools for assessing suicidality, such as the Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS) or Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), should be adapted into sign language and made culturally relevant.

2. Community-Specific Research:

   • Studies should focus on the unique experiences of Deaf individuals and Codas, addressing issues such as family communication, intergenerational trauma, and cultural identity.

3. Increased Awareness and Advocacy:

   • Policymakers, educators, and mental health professionals need to recognize and prioritize the mental health needs of these communities.

4. Supportive Interventions:

   • Interventions should be designed to enhance communication within families, build community connections, and provide accessible mental health resources.

A Call to Action

The elevated rates of suicidality in the Deaf community and the lack of data on Codas highlight an urgent need for action. By prioritizing research, improving access to mental health services, and fostering understanding, we can support these communities in meaningful ways. Let us not overlook their voices—because every life matters, and everyone deserves access to hope and healing.

If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out to a mental health professional or contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.

For Deaf individuals use the 988 Helpline: Chat, Text, Call or Videophone 988.

You are not alone.