Every May, National Speech-Language-Hearing Month highlights the importance of communication health. Formerly known as Better Hearing and Speech Month, the observance was renamed in 2024 to reflect a more inclusive, modern understanding of communication needs—recognizing the full spectrum of how people connect beyond simply “better” hearing and speech.
This month-long initiative promotes early detection, timely intervention, and ongoing support for individuals facing speech, language, or hearing challenges. In this guide, we’ll explore the history and impact of National Speech-Language-Hearing Month—and how you can help raise awareness and support communication health in your community.
National Speech-Language-Hearing Month is more than an awareness campaign—it is a movement to foster inclusion, empathy, and connection. Observed each May, it underscores the essential role that speech, language, and hearing play in everyday life—from building relationships and participating in education to thriving in the workplace and engaging with the broader community.
In addition to raising awareness, the observance promotes public education around early action. Whether it’s recognizing signs of hearing loss or supporting someone with a language disorder, early intervention can lead to lifelong, transformative outcomes.
At its core, National Speech-Language-Hearing Month is about sharing knowledge and expanding access to care. Everyone deserves the opportunity to communicate with clarity and confidence.
Throughout the month, professionals and advocates host educational events, share digital resources, and facilitate conversations that elevate understanding of communication health. The collective mission is simple yet powerful: to ensure individuals and families are equipped with the tools, knowledge, and support they need to thrive.
National Speech-Language-Hearing Month creates opportunities to support individuals across all stages of life:
Children benefit from early identification and intervention, which can prevent communication challenges from interfering with academic, social, or emotional development. According to the CDC, speech and language disorders are among the most common developmental delays in young children—impacting up to 1 in 12 children ages 3 to 17 in the U.S.
Adults benefit from access to screenings, resources, and therapies that improve day-to-day communication at home and in professional settings. Addressing issues early helps reduce misunderstandings, strengthen relationships, and improve quality of life.
Seniors benefit from recognizing and managing age-related changes in speech and hearing. According to the NIHL, hearing loss affects nearly two-thirds of adults over age 70. Timely care supports social engagement, cognitive function, and continued independence.
The origins of this observance date back nearly a century. In 1927, the Federation of Organizations for the Hard of Hearing introduced National Hearing Week to raise public awareness about hearing health and encourage communities to support those experiencing hearing loss.
By 1958, the initiative expanded to include speech and language, and May was officially designated as Better Hearing Month. This broadened focus reflected a deeper understanding of communication—not just hearing, but the ability to speak, understand, and be understood.
What began as a modest awareness effort has evolved into a global initiative embraced by healthcare professionals, educators, and advocates. Key milestones include:
This campaign has since empowered millions through education, resources, and community-driven action.
At the heart of this month lies a commitment to early detection and intervention—ensuring individuals can access the care and support they need to communicate confidently and effectively.
Hearing loss affects millions worldwide and is often gradual, commonly caused by aging or prolonged exposure to loud environments. There are three main types:
Communication challenges can significantly affect how individuals express themselves, relate to others, and function in school or work settings. Common conditions include:
With the right support, individuals can overcome these obstacles and develop strong, lasting communication skills.
Early action leads to better outcomes. Identifying communication challenges as they arise allows individuals to access targeted support before the issues become more complex or disruptive.
Early intervention is not only effective—it is life-changing.
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These professionals are the cornerstone of communication care. Their work encompasses evaluation, treatment, education, and advocacy.
Comprehensive care depends on collaboration. When healthcare providers, educators, and families work as a team, individuals receive consistent and effective support.
Supportive environments are essential for communication growth. Whether at home, school, or within the community, consistent encouragement and practice can make a lasting difference.
Families and caregivers can contribute by:
Even simple, consistent efforts at home can reinforce therapy and boost confidence.
In-person initiatives help spark engagement and deepen community understanding. You can:
Digital platforms are powerful tools for advocacy and education. During May, consider ways to amplify the message online:
Access to care isn’t always guaranteed—but advocacy can help bridge the gap.
Together, small steps can drive systemic change.
National Speech-Language-Hearing Month is more than a date on the calendar—it is a call to action. Through education, advocacy, and community support, we can build a more inclusive world—one where everyone has the tools and opportunity to be heard.
Let’s make this May a catalyst for change, connection, and communication—for everyone, everywhere.
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