Hearing loss affects approximately 15% of all U.S. adults, and although the condition is common, receiving a hearing loss diagnosis can feel overwhelming. It’s common to experience a flood of emotions as you process this new reality and wonder how it might influence your life. Amid these emotions, feelings of anxiety may start to surface, causing a sense of unease, nervousness or even panic. Let’s take a look at the connection between hearing loss and anxiety and what you can do to find relief.
Why Hearing Loss and Anxiety Are Often Connected
One 2019 study found that patients with hearing loss experience higher levels of anxiety compared to those without. Similarly, further research from the National Council on Aging found that people with untreated hearing loss are at a higher risk for anxiety and depression. This connection often stems from fears about communication difficulties in social settings. You may be concerned about mishearing someone’s words, missing important information or feeling out of place in a group conversation.
When you’re diagnosed with hearing loss, it can be easy to feel like you got confirmation that these dreaded communication challenges are guaranteed to happen—but that isn’t necessarily the case. By addressing your anxiety and getting the right treatment for your hearing loss, you can reduce stress and enjoy smoother, more fulfilling social interactions.
How To Regain Confidence
Fortunately, there are ways to address anxiety and improve your overall well-being. Implementing practical strategies and seeking support can help you manage the emotional impact of hearing loss:
- Invest in hearing aids. Hearing aids can transform your communication ability and ease the stress of mishearing conversations. Although hearing aids are not a treatment for anxiety, they can restore a sense of normalcy and help reduce anxiety in social settings.
- Incorporate mindfulness techniques. Mindfulness exercises like deep breathing, meditation or yoga can help you feel less overwhelmed. Try incorporating short mindfulness breaks throughout your day or attending a restorative class at Temple Yoga Reno.
- Contact a mental health professional. A counselor or therapist can help you develop effective coping strategies and provide a safe space to express your feelings. Consider setting up recurring check-ins with a therapist to discuss new stressors or challenges. Alternatively, attending a few sessions soon after your hearing loss diagnosis can help you develop effective coping strategies from the start.
Managing hearing loss-related anxiety can feel daunting, but it’s essential to remember that you aren’t alone. By leaning on your friends and family, discussing fears with a qualified mental health professional and seeking hearing treatment from one of our qualified specialists, you can confidently tackle your new diagnosis. To learn more about your hearing loss, contact LeMay Hearing & Balance today to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists.