Symbol,,, I can relate totally to what you are going through as my hearing loss slowly declined at about age 28 and now I am 43. I have sensorinueral hearing loss, whereas it is damaged nerves and I cannot understand people's word's too clearly. I used to be really out going,,then I became more quiet and did not engage in a lot of group conversations anymore. I ended up getting a VCO phone (as I can not understand phone conversations) then later Captel phone. I now have a VP because last year I emerged into the Deaf community and am learning ASL. There are support groups to assist you in the life transition you are going through and perhaps you can also attend Deaf events and learn ASL.
You will need to go to audiologist to find out the specific type hearing loss and degree of loss you have, but I recommend you look for the support groups out there. You will learn from others (hearing loss) that you will need to stand up to people in a nice manner by coaching people how to speak to you correctly. Many people do not know how to communicate with people with hearing loss, so you tell or show them. (ex. Tell them you are hard of hearing and you need to face me when you speak, speak slower but not too slow, please speak in a clear voice and a little louder).
Learn more about yourself with your hearing loss and some positive coping skills and you will be happier and do just fine.
