Assistive listening devices and hearing aids can be used to treat the common condition of hearing loss. Unfortunately, hearing loss often goes undiagnosed and untreated. This can result in greater depression rates and feelings of isolation in those with hearing loss.
It can also lead to a breakdown in personal and professional relationships, which itself will foster more feelings of depression and isolation. The solution to ending that downward spiral is getting treatment for your hearing loss.
Hearing loss and its connection to depression
We’ve been aware that hearing loss can lead to feelings of separation and depression for a long time now. One study of individuals with untreated hearing loss revealed 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 steer clear of social activities. Many stated that they thought people were getting mad at them for no reason. However, people who got hearing aids reported improvements in their relationships, and the people around them – family, co-workers, and friends – also said they noticed improvements.
Another study revealed that individuals between ages 18 and 70, reported a greater sense of depression if they had hearing loss of more than 25 Decibels. People over 70 with self-reported hearing loss did not show a major difference in depression rates compared to people without hearing loss. But that still means that a large part of the population isn’t getting the help they need to better their lives.
Lack of awareness 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 think that people are mumbling.
You may just think it’s too costly.
It’s imperative that anybody who has dealt with symptoms of anxiety and depression, or the sense that they are being left out of interactions because people appear to be talking really quietly or mumbling a lot, have their hearing checked. We can discuss your options if we do find hearing loss. That may be all you need to feel a whole lot better.
