Do you know someone who used to be the first to jump on the idea of going out with friends or attending a get-together but now, they seem to shy away from the idea? Don’t be too hard on them, as they may be suffering from hearing loss. Hearing loss is an invisible disability that can really take a toll on someone’s well-being and self-esteem if untreated. People may be too nervous or embarrassed to go out, or experience high levels of anxiety from not being able to hear well. This can lead to social isolation which can eventually lead to depression if unattended for too long. Depression affects more than 15 million adults in America and goes hand in hand with hearing loss.
Here are some ways to help you or someone you know:
Speak to an Audiologist
This is the first step you should take, Contact our office to get the professional help that’s needed. It is critical to treat hearing loss as soon as possible so that the depression does not escalate into something more serious such as dementia or mental decline.
Stay Positive!
Yes, it may be a difficult situation but keep a positive attitude and it will help your overall well-being.
Emotional Support
If you know someone who has been avoiding social settings due to hearing loss, be there for them. Try to understand what they are going through instead of questioning why they may not be as engaged as they once were.
Stay Engaged
Encouraging someone to stay engaged is very important. Start off with small gatherings to get their confidence up before diving into large crowds.
Be Aware of Hearing Nutrition
Believe it or not, foods rich in B12 and Folic Acid can aid in keeping your hearing in tip-top shape!
