Hearing loss can be difficult emotionally, and create feelings of isolation and depression.
Why
- Higher incidences of depression occur when individuals with hearing loss feel they need to withdraw from social situations.
- This feeling of wanting to withdraw often stems from not being able to participate in conversation or feeling embarrassed from misunderstanding parts of conversation
- Eventually, people with hearing loss can tend to start avoiding challenging listening situations altogether, resulting in a slippery slope of withdrawing more and more from social events in general.
- The resulting feelings of loneliness and isolation are a red flag for depression, and should be monitored by health care professionals
Statistics
- Moderate to severe depression was higher in adults in the United States aged 18-69 who reported having a hearing impairment, compared to the same age group without hearing loss.
- 36% of patients who wore hearing aids experienced improved mental health
- 34% of hearing aid users increased their social engagement.
Treatment
Individuals who feel themselves withdrawing from social situations and limiting human interaction because of hearing loss should seek help with an audiologist immediately. Intervention with hearing aids and learning about communication strategies that can be applied in difficult listening situations can restore quality of life and enjoyment in social situations, helping to eliminate feelings of isolation and depression.
References
- National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) – NIDCD researchers find strong link between hearing loss and depression in adults
- Signia Medical Conditions and Hearing Loss Brochure-available in clinic.
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Bloor Location
2368 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6S 1P5
(416) 760-7999
Toronto Hearing Consultants is located on the North West corner of Bloor St W and Willard Ave.
There is ample parking on the street and in the Green P parking lot on Willard Ave, beside Zaza Espresso. The clinic is accessible by subway, and is located between Runnymede and Jane Station.
Bathurst Location
980 Bathurst St, Toronto, ON M5R 3G6
(416) 516-0999
Toronto Hearing Consultants at 980 Bathurst Street is located 2 lights north of Bathurst subway station, between Follis Ave and Olive Ave. There is street parking available, and the clinic is a 9 minute walk from Bathurst Station.
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Open Hours
| Monday | 9:30am — 5:30pm |
| Tuesday | 9:30am — 6:00pm |
| Wednesday | 9:30am — 5:30pm |
| Thursday | 9:30am — 5:30pm |
| Friday | 9:30am — 4:30pm |