Hearing loss is a common condition that can be alleviated simply by using hearing aids and assistive listening devices. However, hearing loss frequently goes undiagnosed and unaddressed. This can lead to greater depression rates and feelings of separation in those who have hearing loss.
It can also lead to a breakdown in personal and work relationships, which itself contributes to more feelings of depression and solitude. This is a vicious cycle that can be avoided, and treating your hearing loss is the solution to ending that downward spiral.
Hearing loss and its connection to depression
We’ve known that hearing loss can lead to feelings of solitude and depression for a long time now. One study of individuals with untreated hearing loss revealed that adults 50 years old and older were more likely to report symptoms of depression, along with signs of paranoia or anxiety. They also reported being less socially active. A lot of them had the feeling that people were getting angry at them and they weren’t sure why. But when those people got hearing aids, they reported improvements in their social situation, and others in their life also noted the difference.
For individuals with hearing loss of higher than 25 decibels, who were between 18 and 70 years old, depression was more prevalent. Individuals over the age of 70 with self-reported hearing loss did not show a significant difference in depression rates compared to people without hearing loss. But there are still a great many individuals who need help and aren’t getting it.
Lack of awareness or unwillingness to wear hearing aids affects mental health
With reported results like these, it seems like a no-brainer that you would want to treat your hearing loss. Maybe you just don’t think your hearing is that bad. You think that others are mumbling.
Another factor could be that you think treating your hearing loss is too expensive or time consuming.
It’s crucial to get a hearing exam if you think that you are being left out of interactions or are feeling anxious or depressed. If there is hearing loss, we can discuss your options. It could help you feel a lot better.