Disregarding This Will Affect Your Mental Health

Man with untreated hearing loss depressed and looking out the window.

New studies have shown a strong connection between hearing loss and mental health.

And there’s something else that both of these disorders have in common – they frequently go overlooked and untreated by patients and health professionals. Knowing there is a relationship could potentially enhance mental health for millions of individuals and provide hope as they seek solutions.

We know that hearing loss is common, but only a handful of studies have addressed its impact on mental health.

Out of all people who are diagnosed with hearing loss, studies show that over 11 percent of them also deal with clinical depression. This is significant because only 5 percent of the general population report being depressed. Basic questionnaires were based on self-reporting of hearing loss and considered depression based on the severity and frequency of symptoms. Individuals who were between 18 and 69 had the highest instance of depression. The author of the study and a researcher at NIDCD, Dr. Chuan-Ming Li, saw “a substantial connection between hearing impairment and moderate to severe depression”.

Your Risk of Depression Doubles With Neglected Hearing Loss

Another study, published in JAMA Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, found that individuals with age-related hearing loss (a really common chronic condition in the elderly) experienced more signs of depression and the worse the hearing loss – the higher the risk of having depressive symptoms. After audiometric hearing testing, participants were evaluated for depression. This study also reported that the risk of depression almost doubles in individuals with even minor hearing loss. In addition, many over the age of 70 who suffer from slight hearing loss (which has also been known to raise the danger of cognitive impairment and dementia) are not diagnosed or treated. While the research doesn’t prove that one causes the other, it is clear that it is a contributor.

Hearing is crucial to being active and communicating effectively. Hearing issues can result in professional and social blunders that trigger anxiety and embarrassment, and potentially loss of self-esteem. Progressive withdrawal can be the result if these feelings are left unaddressed. People start to steer clear of physical activity and seclude themselves from friends and family. After a while, this can lead to isolation, loneliness – and depression.

Hearing is About More Than Just Ears

Hearing loss and its association with depression underscores that hearing loss isn’t only about the ears. Your brain, your quality of life, healthy aging, and general health are all impacted by your hearing. This demonstrates that within your general healthcare, your hearing professional plays an important part. Individuals with hearing loss frequently struggle with fatigue, confusion, and aggravation.

The good news: The issue can be significantly improved by getting a hearing test and treatment as soon as you recognize hearing loss symptoms. These risks are greatly reduced, according to research, with early treatment. It is essential that physicians endorse routine hearing tests. Hearing loss isn’t the only thing that a hearing exam can uncover, after all. Caregivers should also look for indications of depression in people who might be dealing with either or both. Common symptoms include difficulty concentrating, fatigue, overall loss of interest, unhappiness, and loss of appetite.

Never dismiss your symptoms. If you suspect you have hearing loss, give us a call to schedule a hearing assessment.



References

https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaotolaryngology/fullarticle/1835392
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaotolaryngology/article-abstract/2781095
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaotolaryngology/fullarticle/2682653
http://www.hearingreview.com/2018/07/new-webinar-depression-hearing-loss-treatment-hearing-aids/

The site information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. To receive personalized advice or treatment, schedule an appointment.