The Psychological Effects Of Living With Hearing Loss

Hearing loss is a common condition that can affect anyone of any age and have differing levels of severity. In addition to causing physical symptoms, hearing loss can have a psychological impact because of how crucial your hearing ability is to daily communication. Each patient will have a different experience of how hearing loss affects them mentally and emotionally. Take a look at some of the psychological symptoms hearing loss can cause and understand better the importance of seeking treatment.        

How Does Hearing Loss Affect the Brain?

The act of hearing is directly linked to the brain. A person who has hearing loss and hasn’t been treated is making their brain work harder than it should to understand the world around them. This can cause unnecessary stress on the brain and the rest of the body. 

The longer the brain has to overwork, the more likely it becomes that the brain will be damaged or restructured. This can lead to early cognitive decline that could have been avoided with the use of a hearing aid.

Common Psychological Effects of Hearing Loss

There are many psychological effects of hearing loss that patients experience over the course of time. It’s important to recognize and address these psychological issues before they become a big issue. Here are some of the most common effects.

Embarrassment

People with hearing loss may feel embarrassed by the condition. Hearing loss can make it difficult to pick up certain sounds or have conversations in crowded places. It may be necessary to explain hearing impairment to those who have never come across it before which can lead to embarrassment. 

Learning to accept the condition and address it with others confidently is a great step toward not being embarrassed. Joining a group or forum for people with hearing loss can help with this.

Depression

It’s common for people with hearing loss to suffer from depression. Symptoms of depression can range widely from feeling low now and again to more serious symptoms like not wanting to go to work, not eating regular meals, or problems with sleep. Depression can affect a person’s outlook on life and at its most serious can lead to suicidal thoughts.

It’s important to seek help when you display any symptoms of depression. Talking to a medical professional could put your mind at rest.

Anxiety

Anxiety is another common psychological effect of hearing loss. Living life with hearing loss can make the world seem like a scarier place. Someone with hearing loss may find themselves asking the question, ‘What if…?’ more often than others. What if I can’t hear what she’s saying? What if the battery dies on my hearing aid?

There are many uncertainties that can lead to feelings of anxiety when someone has hearing loss. It can help to talk these worries through with your audiologist for more peace of mind.

Lack of Social Life

Being social is a healthy way to be part of society. However, being in a crowded room when you have hearing loss can be very daunting. Many people with hearing loss find themselves avoiding social situations out of fear of being left confused and unable to hear properly.

Isolation can lead to other mental health struggles that make life difficult. It can help to spend time with trusted family and friends in places that make you feel comfortable and join communities to connect with other people experiencing hearing loss who will understand your feelings.

Can Hearing Loss Treatment Help?

Yes. The more confident you are about your hearing, the less likely you are to experience these psychological effects seriously. It’s vital that you get the right care for your hearing loss from an experienced audiologist. An audiologist can talk to you about the severity of your hearing loss and offer advice on the best course of action.

You’ll gain knowledge on what you can expect from your hearing now and what may happen in the future. Whether treatment is offered or you’re given advice on the best hearing aids available, this knowledge will empower you to live life to the fullest.

Ask For Help

If your hearing loss is affecting your mental health, there is help available. Talk to your medical professional about what you’re experiencing and ask for advice. There are many options available to you, including counseling and medication. The first step is always the hardest but it can ensure you get the help you need.

If you would like to learn more about hearing loss treatment and hearing devices, we can help at Professional Hearing Solutions. Call our dedicated team at (386) 478-7345 and we’ll be happy to offer advice.