Hearing Aids can help minimize the negative effects of the prevalent condition of hearing loss. However, a lot of hearing loss goes undiagnosed and neglected – and that can lead to higher depression rates and feelings of isolation in those who suffer from hearing loss.
And it can spiral into a vicious circle where solitude and depression from hearing loss bring about a breakdown in personal and work relationship causing even worse depression and isolation. Getting hearing loss treated is the key to preventing this unnecessary cycle.
Studies Link Hearing Loss to Depression
Symptoms of depression have been consistently connected, according to numerous studies, to hearing loss. Symptoms of depression, anxiety, and paranoia were, according to one study, more likely to impact people over the age of 50 who have untreated hearing loss. And it was also more likely that that group would withdraw from social involvement. Many said that they felt as if people were getting frustrated with them for no apparent reason. Still, those who got hearing aids reported improvements in their relationships, and the people around them – friends, co-workers, and family – also observed improvements.
A more profound sense of depression is encountered, as documented by a different study, by individuals who suffered from a 25 decibel or more hearing impairment. The only group that didn’t report an increased incidence of depression even with hearing loss was people 70 years old or older. But all other demographics include people who aren’t receiving the help that they require for their hearing loss. Another study discovered that hearing aid users had a lower reported rate of depression symptoms than those individuals who suffered from hearing loss but who did not use hearing aids.
Mental Health is Impacted by Opposition to Wearing Hearing Aids
With reported benefits like those, you would imagine that people would want to manage their hearing loss. However, two factors have prevented people from finding help. Some people believe that their hearing is functioning just fine when it really isn’t. They assume that people are deliberately speaking quietly or mumbling. Also, it’s fairly common for people to have no clue they have a hearing problem. To them, it seems like others get tired of talking to them.
If you are someone who regularly thinks people are talking quietly or mumbling and it’s causing you to feel anxiety or even depression, it’s time for a hearing examination. If there’s hearing loss, that person needs to talk about which hearing aid is best for them. You could possibly feel a lot better if you consult a hearing specialist.