Understanding psychological health in deafblindness

The webinar opened with psychologist Ulrik Skov Hansen introducing the theme and the work of the Nordic Network for Psychologists Working on Deafblindness. The network was established in 2024 and brings together members from across the Nordic countries. One of its main aims is to share and develop psychological knowledge about deafblindness and its impact on daily life.

Skov Hansen referred to the revised Nordic definition of deafblindness, which highlights that both physical and psychological health are likely to be affected by a combined vision and hearing loss. He underlined that this raises important questions: how can psychological health be understood, and how does it relate to life with deafblindness?

Deafblindness is a combined vision and hearing impairment of such severity that it is hard for the impaired senses to compensate for each other. Thus, deafblindness is a distinct disability. – Nordic definition on deafblindness

The relation between psychological health and mental health

Psychologist Jude Nicholas continued the webinar by exploring what psychological health means and how it relates to mental health. He explained that while the two concepts are closely linked, psychological health can be seen as part of the broader idea of mental health.

Nicholas also referred to the revised Nordic definition of deafblindness from 2024, which highlights that physical, psychological and social well-being are often affected. He emphasised that deafblindness involves more than sensory loss. The psychological and emotional challenges that come with it can be less visible but have a strong impact on quality of life. According to Nicholas, psychological health is about finding balance between emotions, thoughts and behaviour, and having a sense of meaning, purpose and connection with others. Fatigue among people with deafblindness is often not only physical but also existential, linked to a loss of control or a feeling of being disconnected from one’s values.

Psychological health was also presented in several interconnected levels: the personal, the relational and the societal. Qualities such as self-acceptance, autonomy, positive relationships and a sense of purpose are all important for maintaining psychological well-being for people living with deafblindness.

How deafblindness affects psychological health – insights from research

Psychologist Rasmus Hougaard Pedersen from Specialist Consultancy for the Deafblind presented an overview of research on how deafblindness influences psychological health. He noted that there is still a lack of studies examining the whole group of people with deafblindness, as most existing research focuses on specific subgroups.

Previous studies have mainly looked at age-related deafblindness, dual sensory loss, or diagnoses such as Usher syndrome. These studies provide valuable insights but do not yet offer a complete picture of how psychological health is affected across the entire population of people with deafblindness.

Pedersen highlighted findings that link quality of life to several psychosocial factors, including ontological security and autonomy, access to information and communication, social support and mental wellbeing. Research on people with Usher syndrome shows that many develop strategies to protect their psychological health, make use of support systems and maintain a sense of control and connection in everyday life.

Although the research base remains limited, it points clearly to the importance of social participation, access to communication and personal autonomy as key factors for psychological health and wellbeing among people with deafblindness.

Supporting psychological health in practice

Licensed psychologist Sofia Hansdotter from National Resource Center for Deafblindness, Sweden described how psychological health can be supported from societal, relational and personal perspectives. She explained that well-being is influenced by the conditions people live in, the support they receive and the way they handle challenges in everyday life.

At the societal level, access to information, education, work and public services plays a crucial role. Hansdotter highlighted that “making important information accessible so the person can make informed choices about their life and rights.” This increases a person’s sense of control, which supports psychological health in the long run. She also emphasised the value of supporting deafblind organisations and recognising experiences of marginalisation.

“Making important information accessible so the person can make informed choices about their life and rights.”- Sofia Hansdotter

At the relational level, communication barriers, fatigue and difficulties joining social activities can lead to isolation. Supporting people with deafblindness to maintain and build relationships, share communication strategies and connect with peers helps strengthen well-being.

At the personal level, Hansdotter underlined the importance of self-advocacy, flexibility and stress management. Practising mindfulness, identifying personal values and taking small meaningful actions can help individuals live a balanced and fulfilling life with deafblindness.

Life with deafblindness and the need for independence

Jackie Lehmann Hansen, chairperson of Deafblind Denmark, shared reflections on living with deafblindness and the importance of independence. Receiving the diagnosis often brings a sense of being different from others, which can affect identity and confidence.

Lehmann Hansen spoke about the strong wish among people with deafblindness to make their own choices and plan their lives independently. Everyday activities, travel and even holidays often need to be planned far in advance, leaving little room for spontaneity. This constant need to organise and rely on others can be challenging for psychological well-being.

Access to higher education was mentioned as one area where practical and technical barriers remain. Lehmann Hansen underlined that creating real opportunities for autonomy and participation is essential for improving both equality and psychological health among people with deafblindness.

Watch the webinar on YouTube