The World Health Organization (WHO) named March 3rd World Hearing Day, aiming to raise awareness about hearing loss and promote ear and hearing care globally. This year’s theme is “Changing Mindsets: empower yourself to make ear and hearing care a reality for all.”
It is a powerful theme because it puts the person with hearing loss in the driver’s seat, acknowledging that the attitudes we hold about our hearing loss and the actions we take to advocate for ourselves are key to how well we live with it.
This is an important message in Hear & Beyond: Live Skillfully with Hearing Loss. In the book, co-author Gael Hannan and I encourage readers to take charge of their hearing loss journeys, because when they do, they can live more skillfully with it.
Ways to Celebrate World Hearing Day
This year’s World Hearing Day theme builds on last year’s, which focused on changing mindsets about ear and hearing care in the general population and with medical care providers. In 2025, the campaign aims to inspire people to take charge of their own hearing health by changing their attitudes and behaviors
The World Hearing Day team has created many opportunities for people to participate. Pick the option that resonates most with you. Or choose your own way to celebrate.
1. Share the campaign’s key messages
Visit the World Hearing Day 2025 website for a list of key messages to share on your social media accounts or in conversation with family and friends. Some of these messages include:
- By 2030, over 500 million people are expected to have disabling hearing loss requiring rehabilitation.
- Over one billion young people face the risk of permanent hearing loss due to prolonged exposure to loud sounds during recreational pastimes such as listening to music and video gameplay.
- How we hear in the future depends on how we care for our ears today as many cases of hearing loss can be avoided through the adoption of safe listening and good hearing care practices.
- For those living with hearing loss, early identification and access to timely rehabilitation are essential to achieving their highest potential.
- You can take steps today to ensure good hearing health throughout life.
2. Tell your hearing loss story
Stories are powerful ways to help others understand the reality of living with hearing loss. And with better understanding, stigma fades away. Last year I was invited to share my hearing loss journey at the World Hearing Forum’s Stakeholders’ Meeting at WHO headquarters in Geneva. World Hearing Day could be a good opportunity for you to share your story in whatever setting makes you feel comfortable.
3. Plan an event
Events of all types are welcome! Start small by trying out a new assistive listening device with your friends or family. Or go big and arrange a Walk or other commemorative event. Or simply suggest a hearing loss book for your next book club meeting. Find a free discussion guide for Hear & Beyond: Live Skillfully with Hearing Loss here. Whatever you do, please register it on the World Hearing Day website so the team can celebrate with you.
4. Engage in self-reflection
Simply use the day to reflect on your hearing loss journey. Are there steps you can take to self-advocate more effectively in 2025 and beyond? Decide to take that first step forward.
Readers, how will you celebrate World Hearing Day?
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