Hearing aids are wonderful pieces of technology. Even for those who are a little more reluctant than others to use them for any reason, it’s impossible to ignore the fact that hearing aids will help to mitigate the adverse effects of hearing loss. However, it’s important to remember that not everyone who could benefit from wearing hearing aids has them. This is because they might not have realized there is any kind of hearing loss taking place or perhaps they are simply not ready to have their hearing checked, even if they have noticed that something has changed. 

The problem is that misdiagnosed hearing loss can be problematic, as can hearing loss that is not diagnosed at all, and this is not just due to the physical implications. It’s down to your mental health as well. In fact, when you have your hearing checked, your mood can improve substantially. Here are some of the reasons why. 

Depression And Hearing Loss 

Countless studies have taken place regarding depression. It’s a condition that seems to be becoming more and more prevalent, and therefore it makes sense that people are looking more deeply into it. Some of this research has shown a link between depressive symptoms and hearing loss

According to one study, for example, adults over the age of fifty who have ignored their potential or definite hearing loss are more likely to have symptoms of depression, anxiety, stress and paranoia. Furthermore, such individuals were more prone to disengage from social involvement, which would make these mental health problems much more pronounced. Many people expressed concern that others were becoming irritated with them for no apparent reason.

Others who received hearing aids, on the other hand, reported improvements in their relationships, as did those around them, including family, coworkers and friends. There appears to be a clear link between having your hearing checked and a reduction in depression symptoms. 

According to a separate study, people who have a hearing impairment of 25 decibels or more had a more severe sensation of depression. Individuals aged 70 and above were the only group that did not report an increased prevalence of depression despite hearing loss. However, individuals in all other categories aren’t receiving the treatment they need for their hearing loss. Participants in another study stated that those who treated their hearing loss using hearing aids had a decreased depression rate.

You’ll Remove Uncertainty from Your Life 

If you’re thinking about taking a hearing test, you undoubtedly assume you have some hearing loss. It is difficult to live with uncertainty, which can have an immediate impact on your mood. Hearing exams are non-invasive and only take around an hour of your time. Once you receive the findings, you can decide how to proceed. For many individuals, knowing that hearing aids would enhance their quality of life is a source of comfort, and they’ll feel happier because of it. 

On top of this, having your hearing checked and wearing the hearing aids prescribed for you will take away uncertainty in other areas of your life. Maybe you are worried when you go outside that you won’t hear something important, or perhaps you’re unsure whether your family and friends and talking to you or not. Get your hearing checked, and this uncertainty can go away, one way or another. 

You’ll Have Better Relationships 

When you can’t hear parts of a discussion because of background noise or when others think you’re aloof, socializing can be difficult. There’s also the little problem of not hearing all the nuances of what the employer says during a meeting. Aren’t you sick of hearing what or having to ask people to repeat themselves?

According to research, improved hearing leads to a better mood because you won’t have to worry about all of this any longer. You will be able to feel confident no matter what situation you are in, and that will directly improve the way you feel in general. 

Often, family members can detect a hearing loss before the individual involved themselves. This might lead to disagreements over how loud TV and movies should be or who said what about anything. People can misunderstand your conduct if it looks like you are ignoring them. Once you get your hearing test results, you can take steps to resolve any issues that have arisen, including family feuds. Again, your mood is sure to improve because of this. 

If it seems as though a hearing test would help you and improve your mood, and to learn more about Portland Audiology Clinic, LLC call us today at (503) 227-3668.