New research has revealed a strong link between hearing loss and mental health.
And there’s something else that both of these conditions have in common – health professionals and patients frequently fail to acknowledge and address them. Realizing there is a connection could potentially improve mental health for millions of individuals and provide hope as they seek solutions.
We understand that hearing loss is widespread, but only a few studies have addressed its impact on mental health.
Research has revealed that more than 11 percent of people with measurable hearing loss also had symptoms of clinical depression. Depression was only reported by 5 percent of the general population so this finding is significant. Basic questionnaires were based on self-reporting of hearing loss and considered depression based on the frequency and severity of symptoms. People who were between 18 and 69 had the highest instance of depression. The author of the study and a scientist at NIDCD, Dr. Chuan-Ming Li, noted “a considerable connection between hearing impairment and moderate to severe depression”.
Your Risk of Depression Doubles With Neglected Hearing Loss
Age related hearing loss is extremely common in older individuals and, according to a study published by JAMA Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, the chance of depression increases the more severe the hearing loss is. After audiometric hearing testing, participants took an evaluation for depression. Once more, researchers observed that people with even slight hearing loss were almost twice as likely to experience depression. Even more alarming, mild hearing loss often goes undiagnosed and untreated by many people over 70 which has also been shown to raise the danger of cognitive decline and dementia. While the studies cannot prove that one causes the other, it is evident that it is a contributor.
In order to communicate successfully and remain active, hearing is crucial. Anxiety, embarrassment, and potential loss of self-confidence can be the result of the social and professional blunders that come with hearing loss. Progressive withdrawal can be the outcome if these feelings are not addressed. People start to steer clear of physical activity and seclude themselves from family and friends. Over time, this can result in isolation, loneliness – and depression.
Hearing Isn’t Only About The Ears
Hearing loss is about more than the ears as is underscored by its connection with depression. Hearing impacts your overall health, the brain, quality of life, and healthy aging. This highlights the crucial role of the hearing care professional within the scope of general healthcare. Confusion, frustration, and fatigue are frequently an issue for people who deal with hearing loss.
The good news: The problem can be significantly improved by getting a hearing exam and treatment as soon as you recognize hearing loss symptoms. These risks are considerably reduced, according to research, with early treatment. It is essential that physicians advise regular hearing exams. After all, hearing loss isn’t the only thing a hearing exam can detect. And with people who might be coping with hearing loss, caregivers need to look for indications of depression. Common symptoms include difficulty focusing, exhaustion, general loss of interest, unhappiness, and loss of appetite.
Never neglect your symptoms. If you believe you have hearing loss, call us to schedule a hearing test.
References
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaotolaryngology/fullarticle/1835392
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaotolaryngology/article-abstract/2781095
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaotolaryngology/fullarticle/2682653
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