While it might sound a contradictory opinion to make, the research team which spent analyzing a group of people found that failing to treat hearing loss issues at once can lead to mental depression on the long run.

From a doctor’s perspective, it may sound biologically unwarranted because a depressed state doesn’t have any direct connection with sensory perception. However, when assessed at a closer range, it was found that the lack of ability to easily understand a conversation or the things going around them frustrates them, which eventually leads to loneliness and depression.


The detailed study and its results were submitted at the American Psychological Association’s annual convention. The research team gathered at least 2,304 people for this particular study. Majority of them were older men and women because hearing loss is an issue that is usually found with the elderly. The group also consisted of younger people who suffered the problem due to various issues, including chronic diseases, accidents and other scenarios.

After studying them for months, the study found that at least 50% of people with hearing loss face depression if they fail to seek hearing aids or other form of treatment. Similar to visionary problems, the ability to hear sounds and voices is an important sensory organ for the human brain to function properly. When it fails to do its duty, people start getting frustrated easily and start feeling anxious or lonely. The condition slowly deteriorates to a point, where they became extremely depressed.

Unless and until psychological treatment is provided by professionals, it is tough to bring them out of depression because many in the group have already avoided treatment for years. It was a mental issue that was caused over prolonged periods, which require solutions that are equally extensive, concluded the team.

A wide range of problems are faced by people with hearing issues apart from depression. Many of them tend to develop dementia over a period of time, while others face social isolation, which results in cognitive disorders. If they are treated the right way and use peripherals to help them hear better, they can easily come back to normal life and have better control over their emotional outcomes, according to David Myers, a Psychology professor at Hope College in Michigan.

The research was conducted for academic purposes, but for a common man, it is evident that they should immediately treat any kind of problem, be it physical or mental to lead a peaceful life.