Hearing loss is a prevalent condition that can be mitigated simply by using hearing aids and assistive listening devices. However, hearing loss frequently goes undiagnosed and unaddressed. For people with hearing loss, this can bring about feelings of social-separation and depression.
And these feelings of depression and separation can be increased by the breakdown of professional and personal relationships which often come with hearing loss. This is a horrible cycle that can be prevented, and treating your hearing loss is the solution to ending that downward spiral.
Hearing loss and depression
It’s true that untreated hearing loss is connected to experiencing depressive symptoms – and this isn’t a new trend. One study of people 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 were also more likely to steer clear of social activities. A lot of them had the feeling that people were getting mad at them and they weren’t sure why. But when those individuals got hearing aids, they reported improvements in their social situation, and others 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 prevalent. Increased depression wasn’t reported by individuals over 70 who had self-reported hearing loss. But that still means that a significant part of the population is not getting the help they require to better their lives.
Mental health can be impacted by refusal to use 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. Perhaps you just don’t think your hearing is that bad. You think that people are mumbling.
Another issue could be that you think 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 interactions or are feeling anxious or depressed. If there is hearing loss, we can talk about your options. It could help you feel a lot better.