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Hearing loss is a major public health issue – about half of adults older than 65 struggle with measurable hearing impairment. It’s a condition that only worsens over time and can have detrimental effects on many other parts of your life, including your well-being and happiness.

Studies have shown that those who struggle with hearing loss have a greater chance of having depression – more than 11 percent of those with hearing loss have been diagnosed with depression compared to five percent of those with normal hearing.

Hearing loss can have damaging effects on a sufferer’s social life and can be emotionally taxing. Sufferers of hearing loss typically have difficulty communicating with others which can lead to stress and the straining of relationships with family, friends and coworkers. This social and emotional isolation can quickly lead to depression.

Although some symptoms of depression like sadness and isolation are more obvious, hearing loss can have other harmful effects to a sufferer’s mental health and quality of life such as:

• Irritability, negativity and anger
• Embarrassment, shame and guilt
• Self-criticism and low self-esteem/confidence
• Lack of concentration

The related risks of hearing loss are vast and will only worsen over time. If you or a loved one is experiencing hearing loss, it’s important to see a professional to get a hearing test and discuss your treatment options. Treating hearing loss early and effectively can help improve your hearing and reduce your risk of depression and the other related ailments.