Anxiety caused by doctors, hearing professionals and lack of understanding at the moment.

[CJs_mum]

Hi, I'm in my 30's, struggling with hearing loss and depression and anxiety in WA.

Firstly the hearing:
I have been having difficulty finding a provider to help me with Hearing Aids for years. I've had GP's tell me its all in my head, but that's not the case at all. I simply can not hear and because of my age, no one is able to help.
I've been homeless and on a pension almost all my life (mostly due to hearing loss - can't always follow instructions and miss certain important messages etc, can't hear on a phone or understand half of what's said)
I have very little money but need hearing aids and they COST! Some can be anywhere from $3,000 - $12,000 depending on what brand you get given and what your needs are. Ouch. I don't have that! Am now panicking because I need them badly.
Can anyone help me in WA?

Thanks in advance there.

Secondly the Anxiety:
I've just been to a new GP and he's told me I'm "crazy" and laughed. He said but that's ok, all I need to do is just go to the main mental health hospital here, just rock up with the referral he'll write me and - voila - "just like that, it's all good. I'll be instantly better, as that's where I need to be - I'll feel like I belong - because I do and I'll get help with facing the hearing providers there." Apparently. hmm. Nope, I don't think so at all!
I can not afford to be back on medication - financially, mentally and physically - at the moment. I have a history of mental illness, yes, but that shouldn't mean right now I'm "crazy". I'm not - I just want hearing aids and need some help with the huge costs AND need some help to sort out some personal family stuff (a family counsellor was what I wanted a referral to!).
This is what is causing the anxiety at the moment. I don't think I need a hospital or for my daughter to be taken away from me for what I perceive as a fairly simple problem that could be fixed easily with a bit of guidance, thank you.

I feel I am in a bit of a cycle at the moment: panicking because people think I'll panic and "go crazy" and be I'll labelled just that, but I just was labelled that so therefore I must be and...- agh! Round and round I go. I'm not crazy, but these people seem to want to send me that way!

Finally, depression: the root cause of all this shite above.
My dad was in Vietnam. He was strict when I was little: long story short, I'm still afraid of him, even as an adult.
What can I do to tell medical staff this without labels?

Thank you.
All the best

[blondguy]

Hello CJs_mum

Its good to see you again and thankyou for posting too!

I understand that you are going through a tough time which is awful as I have too.

Can I ask when the last time you had an audiogram? This basic hearing test will confirm your hearing status. It available from any GP

I also understand your frustration with some GP's. General Practitioners have better training where mental health is concerned for a few decades now. I would strongly suggest a new GP as the word 'crazy' doesnt get used anymore. Possibly in the 1950's or 60's but it would be extremely rare nowadays to hear what your GP 'said' as well as you would be 'instantly better' with a referral to a hospital.

Im sorry about your dad bringing you fear as a strict parent even now.

Its only my humble opinion as a sufferer of long term anxiety/depression that frequent counseling will bring you some peace in your life.

You are not 'crazy' at all CJs_mum.....I feel your pain very well...

I hope you can post back when convenient for you

My kind thoughts

Paul

[Croix]

Dear CJs_mum~

I've read some of your posts, both dealing with your own problems, and where you support others and I'm sorry you are in such difficult circumstances.

I'd have to agree with Paul that any GP that uses the word 'crazy' is acting in a most unprofessional manner. 'Crazy' is not a medical term, I cant find any reference to this term in DSM-4. It is also judgmental and insulting.

Whatever else I'd be wanting to change GPs. Finding one that is competent and sympathetic is important and sometimes is half the battle. I've been fortunate that way..

As for a hearing aid, I've no suggestions about funding but will mention using a smartphone. These have apps that work as an adjustable amplifier though earbuds or earphones. While I'm well aware they are no substitute for proper hearing aids they can be useful in some circumstances. A noisy environment where directional ability is important, to prevent having to increase the volume on a TV to the discomfort of others and so on.

As you already know dealing with depression and the aftermath of your parent is a difficult thing, and takes time. I realize going on meds might not seem ideal, all I can say is that I did not improve until I had the proper medical support, and this has included medication all the way though.

If you have difficulty accessing family counseling via the health system are there other avenues, perhaps welfare groups? I understand organizations such as Relationships Australia may offer services at reduced fees.

Perhaps it might be worth having a chat to our own 24/7 Help Line (1300 22 4636) to see what might be available in your area.

I can only sympathize with the difficult time you are having

Croix

[geoff]

hi CJs_mum, welcome to the site.

Firstly I'll address your hearing aid as I have to go, but if you are on a pension then you can get hearing aids free, and I don't like giving people sites to google but try this 'hearing aids for people on a pension' or
'where can I get free hearing aids', copy and paste these into the browser.

I have a friend who can get a free hearing aid as he is on a Disability Pension. Geoff.