Hearing loss is a common condition that can be mitigated easily by using hearing aids and assistive listening devices. But hearing loss is often neglected and untreated. This can lead to greater depression rates and feelings of separation in those with hearing loss.
It can also cause a breakdown in personal and work relationships, which itself contributes to more feelings of depression and solitude. This is a horrible cycle that can be avoided, and treating your hearing loss is the key to ending that downward spiral.
Hearing loss and its link to depression
We’ve been aware that hearing loss can lead to feelings of isolation and depression for a long time now. Adults older than 50 with untreated hearing loss frequently report feelings of depression and anxiety, according to one study. They also reported being less socially involved. Many stated that they thought people were getting angry at them for no reason. However, people who got hearing aids reported improvements in their relationships, and the people around them – family, co-workers, and friends – also said they saw improvements.
For individuals with hearing loss of more than 25 decibels, who were between 18 and 70 years old, depression was more prevalent. People over the age of 70 with self-reported hearing loss didn’t show a significant difference in depression rates compared to people without hearing loss. But there are still a great many people who need assistance and aren’t receiving it.
Lack of recognition or unwillingness to wear hearing aids impacts mental health
With reported results like these, it seems like a no-brainer that you would want to treat your hearing loss. Perhaps you simply don’t think your hearing is that bad. You might think people aren’t speaking clearly.
Another issue could be that you believe treating your hearing loss is too expensive or time consuming.
It’s crucial to get a hearing test if you think that 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 that you need to feel a whole lot better.