Hearing loss is more widespread than many might think. It also spans the ages a lot more than you’d think, given the risk of exposure to loud, constant noises today through pop music concerts, practicing musical instruments, listening to music through earbuds, and using loud machinery. With hearing loss comes a limited connection to the people and world around you. Does hearing loss cause depression?
The Prevalence of Hearing Loss
Hearing loss is certainly more common among the older population; it often happens naturally and is nothing to be ashamed of. Hearing loss also affects other generations, some have noise-induced hearing loss, others might have suffered concussions, and others have tinnitus. No matter the age, it often takes years before anyone will get themselves hearing treatment, which has avoidable, negative consequences.
What Is Depression?
Depression is a subconscious form of discouragement and even despair. It often manifests as apathy toward life, feelings of guilt, shame, and worthlessness, and an inability to function and concentrate on daily tasks. Sadness, aggression, and isolation are other symptoms. Psychologists classify it as a mood disorder.
How Hearing Loss Can Lead to Depression
How does hearing loss cause depression? It does not necessarily cause depression, but it can make a person feel frustrated and discouraged when interacting with others. This frustration can lead someone to give up and not socialize anymore. An unhealthy social life can make someone feel depressed.
Other Dangers of Hearing Loss
Aside from isolation and depression, hearing loss can also lead to dangers, like a higher risk of balance issues, brain fog, memory loss, and inability to hear important sounds like fire alarms or approaching vehicles.
Don’t Wait to Hear Great
Hearing loss impairs people’s ability to thrive. Hearing treatment is the best way to overcome it. Don’t wait to hear great! Once people receive treatment, their depression levels decrease within months. If you live in the Baltimore area, you can count on Clarity Audiology!
Trust the Experts at Clarity Audiology & Hearing Solutions
Need help with your hearing? Clarity Hearing can help. Clarity Audiology & Hearing Solutions is an independently owned and operated clinic that focuses on quality of care and personalized, friendly service to the surrounding areas of Ellicott City, Catonsville, Columbia. Our Doctors of Audiology are highly trained with advanced degrees and take the time to provide the personalized care and attention that you need and deserve. We provide advanced hearing aid options that are personally calibrated with cutting-edge digital technology to fit your hearing loss, your unique ear anatomy, and your individual listening needs.
You can call us today to schedule a FREE Hearing Protection Consultation at 410-698-6594! For more blog posts, news, and updates, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and LinkedIn.