Hearing loss is a prevalent condition that can be mitigated simply by using hearing aids and assistive listening devices. But hearing loss is frequently neglected and untreated. For people with hearing loss, this can bring about feelings of social-separation and depression.
It can also cause a breakdown in personal and professional relationships, which itself contributes to more feelings of depression and isolation. The solution to putting a stop to that downward spiral is getting treatment for your hearing loss.
Hearing loss and depression
We’ve been aware that hearing loss can lead to feelings of solitude and depression for a long time now. Adults older than 50 with neglected hearing loss frequently describe feelings of depression and anxiety, according to one study. They were also more likely to avoid social activities. A lot of them felt like people were getting mad at them and they weren’t sure why. But when those individuals got hearing aids, they reported improvements in their social situation, and others in their life also noticed the difference.
Another study found that people between ages 18 and 70, reported a greater sense of depression if they had hearing loss of more than 25 Decibels. Increased depression was not reported by individuals over 70 who had self-reported hearing loss. But there are still a great many people who need assistance and aren’t getting it.
Mental health can be impacted by refusal to use hearing aids or to lack of awareness
It seems like 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 aren’t speaking clearly.
Another factor could be that you think treating your hearing loss is too costly or time consuming.
It’s important to get a hearing assessment if you think that you are being left out of conversations or are feeling anxious or depressed. If there is hearing loss, we can talk over your options. It could help you feel much better.