Hearing loss and mental health

Does it ever seem like everyone around you is mumbling? Or are you struggling to hear the TV? You might have impaired hearing.

Hearing loss can lead to different emotional struggles. You might start feeling frustrated that you have to keep asking family members to repeat themselves. Or perhaps you feel like you are missing out on conversations in group settings. Maybe it’s getting hard to hear your favourite music– or the laughter of your grandkids. You may even avoid social situations to avoid feeling isolated and left out.

It’s important not to discount these emotions. Impaired hearing and the feelings of isolation and helplessness that often come with it can lead to mental health conditions such as:

Early detection of hearing loss is important. The sooner you know the extent of the damage and the potential causes, the sooner you can take action to slow down further impairment.

Professional treatment for hearing loss typically begins with a hearing test conducted by an audiologist. If tests reveal a hearing impairment, the health care provider can point you toward treatment options.