Hearing loss is a prevalent condition that can be mitigated easily by using hearing aids and assistive listening devices. But hearing loss is often ignored and untreated. For individuals 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 work and personal relationships which often accompany 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 its link to depression
It’s true that neglected hearing loss is connected to developing depressive symptoms – and this isn’t a new trend. Adults older than 50 with untreated hearing loss often describe feelings of depression and anxiety, according to one study. They also reported being less socially involved. Many said that they felt like people were getting mad at them for no reason. However, those who got hearing aids reported improvements in their relationships, and those around them – family, co-workers, and friends – also stated that they saw 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. Increased depression was not reported by people over 70 who had self-reported hearing loss. But there are still a great many people who need assistance and aren’t getting it.
Lack of recognition or unwillingness to wear hearing aids affects mental health
With reported results like those, it seems like a no-brainer that you would want to get your hearing loss treated. Maybe you believe your hearing is fine. You may think people are mumbling.
Another issue could be that you believe treating your hearing loss is too costly or time consuming.
It’s important to get a hearing exam if you think that you are being left out of interactions or are feeling anxious or depressed. We can talk about your options if we do find hearing loss. That may be all you need to feel so much better.