Hearing loss is a prevalent affliction that can be alleviated easily with the use of hearing aids and assistive listening devices. Still, a lot of hearing loss goes undiagnosed and untreated – and that can result in greater depression rates and feelings of solitude in those with hearing loss.
It can also lead to a breakdown in work and personal relationships, which itself contributes to more feelings of isolation and depression. Getting hearing loss treated is the key to preventing this unnecessary cycle.
Studies Link Depression to Hearing Loss
Symptoms of depression have been continuously linked, according to several studies, to hearing loss. One study of individuals who suffer from untreated hearing loss found that adults 50 years or older were more likely to document symptoms of depression, along with signs of paranoia or anxiety. And it was also more likely that that group would retreat from social involvement. Many couldn’t comprehend why it seemed like people were getting angry with them. However, relationships were improved for people who used hearing aids, who noted that friends, family, and co-workers all noticed the difference.
Another study found that individuals between the ages of 18 and 70, revealed a greater feeling of depression if they had hearing loss of more than 25 decibels. The only group that didn’t record a higher occurrence of depression even with hearing loss was people 70 years old or older. But that still means that a large part of the population is not getting the assistance they require to better their lives. And people who participated in a different study revealed that those people who treated their hearing loss with hearing aids had a lower rate of depression.
Mental Health is Affected by Resistance to Wearing Hearing Aids
It seems apparent that with these kinds of results people would wish to seek out help with their hearing loss. However, two factors have stopped people from getting help. Some people believe that their hearing is working just fine when it actually isn’t. They assume that others are purposely talking quietly or mumbling. Also, it’s relatively common for people to be clueless about their hearing problem. To them, it seems like others don’t want to talk to them.
If you are someone who frequently thinks people are talking quietly or mumbling and it’s causing you to feel anxiety or even depression, it’s time for a hearing exam. If there’s hearing loss, that person should talk about which hearing aid is best for them. You could possibly feel a lot better if you go to see a hearing specialist.
