A Silent Link: Hearing Health and Mental Health

Did you know that your hearing health is linked to your overall mental health? It's true. A study published in April 2014 reports that 11.4% of adults with hearing impairment are suffering with moderate to severe depression - this is far higher than the 5.9% reported for those with typically healthy hearing. Those with hearing loss have reported feeling uncomfortable in group settings; they are fearful of entering conversations at the wrong times, talking off-topic, or speaking louder than those around them because of their trouble hearing. Studies have shown that when a person cannot hear properly, they are more prone to social isolation and depression.

Not only is depression and social isolation prevalent within the lives of those who are struggling with hearing loss, cognitive decline has also presented itself as an issue that many struggle with. Studies have shown that a link has been established between hearing loss and cognitive decline. A study from the University of Colorado suggests that one of the factors at play is brain reorganization - the hearing centers of the brain shrink and other parts of the brain which were previously devoted to other tasks will step in.

Audiology.org presents the following numbers related to mental health and hearing health:

If you or someone you love is struggling with hearing loss, contact us today by phone at (888) 574-6776 or request an appointment online here. Don't let hearing loss impact your mental health.