Since 1927, the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association has celebrated Better Hearing and Speech Month each May to raise public awareness of speech and language disorders that affect 14 million Americans.
Speech and language disorders can take many forms and can limit academic achievement, social adjustment, and career advancement. An individual may be born with a speech or language disorder or it may be caused by accidental injury or illness.
" Fortunately, most people with speech and language problems can be helped," said Dr. Amy Finch, interim chair of the Department of Communication Disorders at Fort Hays State University.
" Even if the problem cannot be eliminated, we can teach strategies to people with speech and language problems to help them cope. They may not fully regain their capacity to speak and understand, but a speech-language pathologist can help them live more independently."
Speech-language pathologists are the professionals who treat all types of speech, language, and related disorders. They hold at least a master's degrees and are certified by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. In Kansas, they also are licensed by the state. Speech-language pathologists work in schools, private practice, hospitals, clinics, and other health and education settings.
If you or someone you know needs help in diagnosing or dealing with a communicative disability, contact the FHSU Department of Communication Disorders' Herndon Speech-Language-Hearing Clinic at (785) 628-5366.