3 Reasons Hearing Loss Is Connected With Depression

If you know you've experienced some hearing loss but have put off seeing a doctor and obtaining hearing aids, don't delay any longer. The problem can be detrimental to your well-being in various ways. For instance, this health disorder is connected with depression if left untreated. A few specific consequences tend to be responsible. 

Relevant Research

A study published in 2014 confirmed a link between hearing loss and depression. Whereas some 5 percent of individuals without hearing loss were identified as depressed, that percentage more than doubled among those with a certain degree of hearing impairment. 

Reasons Hearing Loss is Connected With Depression

Increasing Social Isolation

People who lose some of their hearing ability may become less likely to participate in social activities. They can't keep up with group conversations and they feel embarrassed about the situation. Trying to engage with friends and relatives in settings like restaurants becomes nearly impossible. Even during one-on-one conversations, they realize that the other person sometimes becomes frustrated about frequently having to repeat things.

In addition, some acquaintances may start avoiding the hearing-impaired individual because of that frustration. They don't like having to talk loudly and trying to keep their sentences short and simple. Even talking on the phone can be a chore for people on both sides of the conversation.

It's also difficult to build new relationships when hearing loss is left untreated because of the negative impact on communication.

Reduced Enjoyment of Events

You may be less likely to attend events that require good hearing for full enjoyment. Going to a play at a theater, for instance, is problematic for someone who doesn't hear well. So is attending informational lectures and continuing education courses. 

Stress and Fatigue

Having to work at communicating effectively is stressful and causes fatigue. Instead of coming home from a social event feeling relaxed and content, you may feel frustrated and tired because you couldn't understand important parts of a discussion. That also probably meant you couldn't contribute very much either. And it's tiring if you continuously pretend you can hear well.

In addition, if you successfully pretend you can hear well, people may wonder why you're unable to follow conversations and don't contribute to discussions. They may start worrying about your mental faculties.

What You Can Do Now

Consult a doctor for a hearing screening. Find out about the various products available to improve your hearing. It's an important step toward regaining your quality of life with an improved ability to listen and communicate. For more information, contact Hearing Professionals or a similar organization.


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