Assistive listening devices and hearing aids can be utilized to treat the common condition of hearing loss. Unfortunately, hearing loss frequently goes undiagnosed and untreated. This can result in greater depression rates and feelings of separation in those with hearing loss.
And these feelings of depression and isolation can be enhanced by the breakdown of professional and personal relationships which frequently come with hearing loss. This is a horrible cycle that can be prevented, and treating your hearing loss is the key to ending that downward spiral.
Hearing loss and depression
We’ve been aware that hearing loss can lead to feelings of isolation and depression for a long time now. One study of people with neglected hearing loss found that adults 50 years old and older were more likely to report symptoms of depression, along with signs of paranoia or anxiety. They were also more likely to avoid social activities. Many said that they thought people were getting angry at them for no reason. However, individuals who got hearing aids reported improvements in their relationships, and the people around them – family, co-workers, and friends – also stated that they noticed improvements.
Another study found that people between ages 18 and 70, reported an increased sense of depression if they had hearing loss of more than 25 dB. Individuals over 70 with self-reported hearing loss did not show a significant difference in depression rates compared to people without hearing loss. But that still means that a significant part of the population isn’t getting the help they need to better their lives.
Mental health can be affected by refusal to wear hearing aids or to lack of awareness
With reported results like these, it seems like a no-brainer that you would want to get your hearing loss treated. Maybe you just don’t think your hearing is that bad. You may think people aren’t speaking clearly.
You might just think it’s too costly.
It’s crucial to get a hearing exam 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 might be all that you need to feel so much better.