National Speech-Language Hearing Month aims to end stigmas

Wednesday, May 1, 2024
National Speech-Language Hearing Month aims to end stigmas
Millions of Americans suffer from related speech, language and hearing disorders, and unfortunately, the stigmas surrounding them.

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- May is National Speech Language Hearing Month.

Millions of Americans suffer from related disorders and, unfortunately, the stigmas surrounding them.

Robert M. Augustine, the former President of the American Speech Language Hearing Association, joined Brighter News to speak more about this.

Some high-profile names are helping bring awareness to aphasia, including President Joe Biden, who has discussed his late son Beau's struggle.

Biden has also spoken openly about how coping with a stutter was one of his greatest challenges as a young person and that he still sometimes struggles with halting speech in his public appearances.

Pennsylvanian Senator John Fetterman has also battled aphasia, as well as actor Bruce Willis and talk show host Wendy Williams.

Hearing loss is another disorder that is not just an older person problem. Many younger Americans battle it and the stigmas that come with it.

Augustine talks about where can adults with communication disorders can find help. For more, watch the interview above.