Hearing Aids can help minimize the negative consequence of the prevalent condition of hearing loss. But a higher occurrence of depression and feelings of solitude occurs when hearing loss is neglected and undiagnosed.
It can also result in a breakdown in work and personal relationships, which itself contributes to more feelings of depression and isolation. Getting hearing loss treated is the key to preventing this unnecessary cycle.
Hearing Loss Has Been Linked to Depression by Many Studies
Researchers have discovered in numerous studies that untreated hearing loss is connected to the development of depressive symptoms – and this isn’t a new trend. Symptoms of anxiety, depression, and paranoia were, according to one study, more likely to affect individuals over the age of 50 who struggle with untreated hearing loss. They were also more likely to stay away from social experiences. Many said that they felt as if people were getting angry at them for no apparent reason. Still, those who wore hearing aids reported improvements in their relationships, and the people in their lives – family, co-workers, and friends – also observed improvements.
Another study found that people between the ages of 18 and 70, revealed a greater feeling of depression if they had hearing loss of greater than 25 decibels. The only group that didn’t document a higher incidence of depression even with hearing loss was people 70 years old or older. But all other demographics contain individuals who aren’t receiving the help that they require for their hearing loss. Another study revealed that people who use hearing aids had a lower reported rate of depression symptoms than those subjects who suffered from hearing loss but who didn’t use hearing aids.
Mental Health is Affected by Resistance to Wearing Hearing Aids
It would seem obvious that with these kinds of results people would wish to seek out assistance with their hearing loss. However, two factors have prevented people from getting help. First, some people simply don’t recognize that their hearing is that bad. They have themselves convinced that people are mumbling or even that they are talking quietly on purpose. Also, it’s quite common for people to have no clue they have a hearing problem. It seems, to them, that people don’t like to talk to them.
If you are someone who frequently feels like people are talking quietly or mumbling and it’s causing you to feel anxiety or even depression, it’s time for a hearing test. If there’s hearing loss, that person needs to discuss which hearing aid is right for them. You could possibly feel much better if you consult a hearing specialist.