Hearing loss is a prevalent condition that can be mitigated simply with the use of hearing aids and assistive listening devices. Unfortunately, hearing loss frequently goes undiagnosed and untreated. For individuals who suffered from hearing loss, this can trigger feelings of social-isolation and depression.
And these feelings of depression and isolation can be enhanced by the breakdown of professional and personal relationships which frequently accompany hearing loss. This is a vicious cycle that can be avoided, and treating your hearing loss is the key to ending that downward spiral.
Hearing loss and depression
It’s true that untreated hearing loss is connected to developing 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 describe symptoms of depression, along with signs of paranoia or anxiety. They also reported being less socially involved. A lot of them felt like people were getting mad at them and they weren’t sure why. However, those who got hearing aids reported improvements in their relationships, and those around them – family, co-workers, and friends – also said they saw improvements.
Another study found that individuals between ages 18 and 70, reported an increased sense of depression if they had hearing loss of more than 25 dB. Increased depression was not reported by individuals over 70 who had self-reported hearing loss. But there are still a great many people who need help and aren’t getting it.
Lack of awareness or unwillingness to use hearing aids affects mental health
It seems as if it would be clear that you should get your hearing loss treated when you read reports like this. Maybe you just don’t think your hearing is that bad. You think that others are mumbling.
You might just think it costs too much.
It’s crucial to get a hearing assessment if you feel like you are being left out of conversations or are feeling anxious or depressed. We can talk about your options if we do find hearing loss. That might be all you need to feel a whole lot better.