Hearing loss is a prevalent condition that can be alleviated simply by using hearing aids and assistive listening devices. But hearing loss is often neglected and untreated. This can result in greater depression rates and feelings of isolation in those who have hearing loss.
And these feelings of depression and separation can be enhanced by the breakdown of work and personal relationships which often come with hearing loss. The key to ending that downward spiral is treating your hearing loss.
Hearing loss and its link to depression
It’s true that untreated hearing loss is connected to experiencing depressive symptoms – and this isn’t a new phenomenon. Adults older than 50 with neglected hearing loss frequently report feelings of depression and anxiety, according to one study. They also reported being less socially active. A lot of them had the feeling that people were getting mad at them and they didn’t know why. But when those individuals got hearing aids, they reported improvements in their social condition, and other people in their life also noticed the difference.
For individuals with hearing loss of more than 25 decibels, who were between 18 and 70 years old, depression was more common. Individuals over the age of 70 with self-reported hearing loss didn’t show a big difference in depression rates compared to individuals without hearing loss. But there are still a great many individuals who need assistance and aren’t getting it.
Lack of recognition or unwillingness to wear hearing aids impacts mental health
With reported results like those, it seems like a no-brainer that you would want to treat your hearing loss. Maybe you think your hearing is fine. You think that people are mumbling.
Another issue could be that you believe treating your hearing loss is too expensive or time consuming.
It’s important to get a hearing assessment if you feel like you are being left out of conversations or are feeling anxiety or depression. If there is hearing loss, we can discuss your options. That may be all you need to feel so much better.