Hailu,Henok (MSC)Girma,Fikirte(MD)Mindaye,Selamwit2024-11-282024-11-282023-11https://etd.aau.edu.et/handle/123456789/3746Background: Deaf and hard of hearing students face numerous challenges and barriers in higher education settings that can significantly impact their overall experience and academic success. Despite advancements in technology, there is a lack of comprehensive understanding of the lived experience of these students and their specific challenges Objective: To explore the lived experience of DHH students with depressive symptom. Methods and material: The study was conducted to understand the lived experience of deaf and hard of hearing students with depressive symptom in Addis Ababa University. To conduct the research PHQ 9 was administered to identify students who are experiencing depressive symptoms and In-depth semi-structured interviews were carried out to explore lived experience of DHH students with depressive symptom. I interviewed 10 deaf and hard hearing students to get a better sense of their situation.  Result: The number of participant was 10 and the classification and range for the PHQ 9 From Moderate depression to severe (10 and above). Participants explained they face significant communication barriers due to the lack of sign language interpreters and the limited understanding of sign language among others leading to misunderstandings, frustration, and isolation which hinder their academic progress and contribute to feelings of discouragement. Additionally, there frequently encounter stereotypes and negative perceptions from others, which can lead to feelings of discrimination. DHH students are at an increased risk of depression due to the challenges they face in communication, accessibility, and social interactions. en-USDeafHearing difficultyHigh educational institutionThesis