Woohoo! It’s my favourite time of the year and this year we’re able to socialise with some normality again!
I have a diary full of dates for both friends old and new and importantly some deaf club meetups – in person and online!
Deaf meetups are gatherings of individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. They provide an opportunity for members of the deaf community to come together, socialize, and support one another. These meetups often include activities such as group discussions, social outings, and games. They may also include workshops or presentations on topics that are relevant to the deaf community. For many deaf individuals, these meetups can be an important source of social support and community. For me, I love connecting with people who just understand and have lived experience of the same things as me and have met so many amazing people online through our new network.
Being part of a community can also have many benefits for mental health. For one, it can provide a sense of belonging and connection with others, which can be especially important for individuals who may feel isolated or marginalized. Being part of a community can also provide a sense of purpose and meaning, which can be beneficial for mental well-being. Additionally, having a support network of others who understand and share similar experiences can be helpful for coping with challenges and adversity. Too often I read or hear about people who have no one else in their life who is deaf or has hearing loss to understand their daily challenges. This was certainly my experience growing up!
Often individuals are not able to meet in person due to commitments or geographic restrictions, but that is where our online deaf club, Deaf Dynamics, really comes into its own. It’s a community-owned network of d/Deaf people and those with hearing loss. A place to gather, support, share, collaborate, learn and elevate each other as individuals, businesses and entrepreneurs – with unique benefits!
Make sure you join us!
And if you run a local IRL (in real life!) meetup for deaf people, we salute you – join us online and meet others doing the same!
