Assistive listening devices and hearing aids can be utilized to treat the prevalent condition of hearing loss. Unfortunately, hearing loss often goes undiagnosed and untreated. This can result in greater depression rates and feelings of separation in those who have hearing loss.
And these feelings of depression and separation can be enhanced by the breakdown of professional 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 its link to depression
We’ve known that hearing loss can produce feelings of isolation 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 steer clear of social activities. Many said that they thought people were getting angry at them for no reason. However, those who got hearing aids reported improvements in their relationships, and those around them – family, co-workers, and friends – also said they saw improvements.
For people with hearing loss of more than 25 decibels, who were between 18 and 70 years old, depression was more prevalent. Increased depression wasn’t reported by people over 70 who had self-reported hearing loss. But that still means that a significant part of the population isn’t getting the help they require to better their lives.
Lack of awareness or unwillingness to wear hearing aids impacts mental health
It seems as if it would be clear that you should get your hearing loss treated when you read reports like this. Maybe you think your hearing is okay. You think that people are mumbling.
You may just think it costs too much.
It’s important to get a hearing exam if you feel like you are being left out of conversations or are feeling anxiety or depression. We can discuss your options if we do find hearing loss. It could help you feel a lot better.
