Nearly 1 in 6 people live with some degree of hearing loss which is one of the most common health conditions people experience today. Hearing loss has multifaceted effects on everyday life, health, and wellness. In addition to taking a toll on communication and relationships, untreated hearing loss can impact mental health. Studies show that people with hearing loss can be twice as likely to experience depressive symptoms. This emphasizes the importance of treating hearing loss which can alleviate these outcomes and enhance quality of life.
Link Between Hearing Loss & Depressive Symptoms
There are numerous studies that highlight a correlation between hearing loss and depressive symptoms. A significant study that investigates this link found that hearing loss can significantly increase the risk of depressive symptoms. Researchers examined this link by analyzing data for 18,318 provided by a national health survey. This data included hearing test results as well as responses from a questionnaire that evaluated depressive symptoms. After analyzing this data, researchers found that the prevalence of moderate to severe depression was
- 4.9% for individuals reporting excellent hearing
- 11.4% for people who reported a little to greater hearing loss
This data shows that people with hearing loss were more than twice as likely to experience depressive symptoms.
Impact of Hearing Loss on Mental Health & Wellness
Hearing loss can take a toll on mental health in significant ways that cause or worsen depressive symptoms. A recent study that highlights how hearing loss can affect wellness was published on Clear Living, a healthcare and lifestyle platform. The study involved surveying 3,767 people who completed a questionnaire that assessed the impact hearing loss has on their life. Key findings include:
- 89% of participants cited social and personal issues as the greatest impact of hearing loss
- 58% of people said that their relationships suffered
- 39% of participants reported that their conversations declined or were harder to follow
- 30% found watching TV difficult while 35% struggled being out with friends in public places.
These findings reveal the specific ways hearing loss often contributes to strained communication, relationships, and social withdrawal. Because conversations became really challenging to engage in, people often limit communication as much as possible. This often includes spending less time with loved ones and skipping out on social activities. Not only does this produce distance and tension in relationships, but it deteriorates social connection. This contributes to depressive symptoms like loneliness, isolation, stress etc. Depressive symptoms impact happiness, wellbeing, and daily life.
Hearing Aids Improve Depressive Symptoms
Treating hearing loss offers numerous life changing benefits including boosting mental health by improving depressive symptoms. Studies show that hearing aids have a positive impact on mental health. This includes a study published in JAMA Otolaryngology that investigates how the use of hearing aids or cochlear implants affects depressive symptoms in older adults. The study involved 113 participants, ages 50 and older who wore hearing aids or cochlear implants. Participants were evaluated after wearing hearing aids for 6 months and then again at the 1 year mark. Researchers found that among hearing aid users, depressive symptoms improved by:
- 28% after 6 months of wearing hearing aids
- 16% at the 12 month mark
These findings show that hearing aids improve depressive symptoms and continue to reduce these symptoms the longer they are worn. Treating hearing loss strengthens communication which improves relationships as well as social connection. People are better able to navigate social settings, conversations, and relationships confidently. These benefits boost mental health and alleviate depressive symptoms.
Prioritize Your Hearing Health with hearing Clear Hearing Center
Treating hearing loss starts with one simple step which is scheduling an appointment for a hearing test. Hearing evaluations are conducted by a hearing healthcare specialist and are designed to identify your hearing needs. Hearing tests involve a painless process that measures hearing capacities in both ears. Once your hearing needs are established, your hearing healthcare provider is able to tailor treatment to meet those needs.
Treatment supports people fully participating and engaging in daily life. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for a hearing consultation. Our practice is invested in providing comprehensive care and hearing solutions that transform your everyday life.