Hearing loss is a common condition that can be alleviated easily with the use of hearing aids and assistive listening devices. But hearing loss is often ignored and untreated. This can result in greater depression rates and feelings of solitude in those who have hearing loss.
And these feelings of depression and isolation can be increased by the breakdown of professional and personal relationships which frequently 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 depression
It’s true that neglected hearing loss is connected to experiencing depressive symptoms – and this isn’t a new phenomenon. 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 were also more likely to avoid social activities. Many said that they felt like people were getting mad 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 said they saw improvements.
For individuals with hearing loss of higher than 25 decibels, who were between 18 and 70 years old, depression was more common. Individuals over the age of 70 with self-reported hearing loss did not show a big difference in depression rates compared to people without 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 affected by refusal to use hearing aids or to lack of awareness
It seems as if it would be clear that you should treat your hearing loss when you read reports like this. Perhaps you just don’t think your hearing is that bad. You may think people 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 interactions or are feeling anxious or depressed. We can talk about your options if we do find hearing loss. It could help you feel a lot better.