Hearing loss is a prevalent condition that can be alleviated simply by using hearing aids and assistive listening devices. However, hearing loss often goes undiagnosed and unaddressed. For people with hearing loss, this can bring about feelings of social-isolation and depression.
And these feelings of depression and separation can be enhanced by the breakdown of work and personal relationships which frequently accompany hearing loss. The key to putting a stop to that downward spiral is getting treatment for your hearing loss.
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 found that adults 50 years old and older were more likely to describe symptoms of depression, along with indications of paranoia or anxiety. They also reported being less socially active. A lot of them had the feeling that people were getting mad at them and they weren’t sure why. However, individuals who got hearing aids reported improvements in their relationships, and those around them – family, co-workers, and friends – also stated that they noticed improvements.
Another study revealed 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 didn’t show a significant difference in depression rates compared to individuals without hearing loss. But there are still a great many individuals who need assistance and aren’t getting it.
Lack of recognition or unwillingness to use hearing aids impacts mental health
With reported results like those, it seems like a no-brainer that you would want to treat your hearing loss. Maybe you think your hearing is okay. You think that others are mumbling.
Another issue could be that you believe treating your hearing loss is too costly or time consuming.
It’s crucial to get a hearing exam 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 may be all you need to feel so much better.