Assistive listening devices and hearing aids can be utilized to treat the prevalent condition of hearing loss. But hearing loss is frequently ignored and untreated. This can result in greater depression rates and feelings of solitude in those with hearing loss.
And these feelings of depression and isolation can be increased by the breakdown of work 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
We’ve been aware that hearing loss can produce feelings of solitude and depression for a long time now. One study of people with untreated hearing loss revealed that adults 50 years old and older were more likely to report symptoms of depression, along with indications of paranoia or anxiety. They were also more likely to avoid social activities. A lot of them felt like people were getting mad at them and they didn’t know why. However, individuals who got hearing aids reported improvements in their relationships, and the people around them – family, colleagues, and friends – also stated that they saw improvements.
Another study found that individuals between ages 18 and 70, reported a greater sense of depression if they had hearing loss of more than 25 Decibels. Individuals over 70 with self-reported hearing loss did not show a major difference in depression rates compared to individuals without hearing loss. But there are still a great many people who need assistance and aren’t receiving it.
Mental health can be impacted by refusal to wear hearing aids or to lack of awareness
With reported results like these, it seems like a no-brainer that you would want to get your hearing loss treated. Perhaps you simply don’t think your hearing is that bad. You might think people are mumbling.
You might just think it costs too much.
It’s important to get a hearing test if you feel like you are being left out of interactions or are feeling anxiety or depression. If there is hearing loss, we can talk about your options. That may be all that you need to feel a whole lot better.