Exploring the Link Between Hearing Loss and Mental Health
Are you currently experiencing some form of hearing loss? Do you feel as though you’re struggling with mental distress as a result? If so, you’re not alone. There is evidence to support that this is by no means an uncommon experience. But how exactly are hearing loss and mental health connected? Let’s explore the link between hearing loss and mental health and discover how the NYHD Institute for Hearing & Balance can help you as you move forward.
Physical Effects of Hearing Loss
Hearing loss can occur for a variety of reasons. For some, hearing loss is a gradual process that impacts them over time that they only notice as they get older. Others may experience it at a younger age. Regardless of how it happens, it can change how you’re able to interact with the world around you. You’re no longer able to depend on your hearing to enjoy your favorite media, socializing with others becomes much harder, and your balance may be thrown off by your hearing loss. But beyond these physical effects and how much you can enjoy the sounds around you, there are also psychological effects as well.
Mental Health Effects
Hearing is an essential sense that we take for granted until we no longer hear as well as we used to. When our ability to hear starts to diminish, it can be quite easy to become depressed. A lack of hearing can make activities that we previously loved less enjoyable. But the biggest impact can come in the form of our social lives. With reduced hearing, we might feel defeated when it comes to trying to interact with others. We may misunderstand what is said or not be able to catch it entirely. It can be incredibly frustrating. And because of this, hearing loss can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation in those affected over time. When you can’t hear properly, you may skip social functions, not want to hang out with friends and family members, and ultimately, feel hopeless.
Societal Implications
It’s also important to note that how others perceive you may change once you start to lose your hearing. Not everyone is kind, and some may avoid those suffering from hearing loss because they believe that they won’t be able to properly communicate with them. This type of forced isolation and judgment can add an extra layer of difficulty to the experience, making those with hearing loss feel like they no longer fit in or have become different from their friends and loved ones.
Schedule A Consultation
Hearing loss can be impactful, but it doesn’t have to stop you from living your life and enjoying it to the fullest. At NYHD Institute for Hearing & Balance, we’re dedicated to providing you with the care and support you need to navigate your hearing journey. While those with untreated hearing loss have been shown to develop depression and anxiety, with treatment, you can stop those concerns in their tracks.
Schedule your consultation with us to learn more about how we can support your hearing loss needs and start working toward a better quality of life. Call us at (212) 784-6125 or use our online contact form.
