Unaddressed hearing loss may worsen over time, contributing to various underlying health issues that can eventually impact an individual’s social, emotional, and mental well-being.
In fact, research studies show a strong connection between untreated hearing loss and depression.
How are depression and hearing loss connected?
Researchers found more than 10 years ago that there was a true correlation between individuals with signs of depression and those who have hearing loss. The study concluded that the overall findings of hearing loss identified a significant increase in brain atrophy as a result of hearing loss.
People also reported an inability to effectively communicate in social settings, which can lead to irritability, mood changes, social withdrawal, and the onset of depression.
Who is most at risk for hearing loss and depression?
Tests conducted by the U.S. National Institute on Deafness showed that communication impairments such as deafness drastically increased the likelihood of someone displaying symptoms of depression. What was more shocking is that these ailments seemed to be trending among younger groups of people.
The study group consisted of 18,000 people, ranging from ages 18 to 80 years of age. People under the age of 70 years old were allowed to self-report their own hearing loss, while others above the age of 70 years old were given a hearing test. The test was to determine whether or not symptoms of depression were present.
What can be done for hearing loss and depression?
Following the conclusion of the test, the most important question that researchers ask when reviewing the results is what can be done? The good news is, for many people, help is readily available.
Hearing aids can improve the lives of people with mild to severe hearing impairment. In fact, getting fitted for the right type of hearing device has been shown to improve signs of depression.
If you’ve been struggling to hear, don’t suffer in silence. Schedule a hearing test to see if hearing aids may help you rediscover the sounds of life.