In today’s fast-paced world, stress and anxiety have become almost commonplace, making it all too easy for these feelings to overwhelm us. But when you’re also navigating the challenges of hearing loss, the weight of anxiety can feel even heavier. Let’s explore why hearing loss and anxiety are often linked and look at ways to help you manage both.
The Relationship Between Hearing Loss and Anxiety
The National Council on Aging found that people with hearing loss are at a greater risk for developing mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. This connection often results in a challenging cycle where hearing loss can exacerbate anxiety, and anxiety can worsen the effects of hearing loss.
For example, if you’ve had social anxiety in the past, you might worry that your hearing loss will make it hard to connect with others. This worry can cause you to avoid social situations, which can make your anxiety worse. Similarly, if you’re diagnosed with hearing loss and haven’t struggled with anxiety before, you might start to feel anxious about how others see you.
How Can I Minimize Hearing Loss-Related Anxiety?
When you first receive your hearing loss diagnosis, it’s essential not to let feelings of anxiety cause you to pull away socially. Instead of shying away from social activities, take a few of these steps to take charge of your condition and minimize anxiety:
- Go over your treatment options. Your hearing specialist will help you find the right treatment options to manage your hearing loss. Common options include hearing aids, cochlear implants, auditory training and communication strategies.
- Practice mindfulness techniques. Mindfulness techniques help you divert your attention away from anxiety and towards the here and now. Common techniques include deep breathing, bringing awareness to different parts of your body and positive visualization. If you’re unsure where to start, try taking a meditation class at Upaya Zen Center.
- Seek professional support. Reach out to a mental health professional for guidance and coping strategies. Work with a counselor or therapist to develop tools to manage anxiety and navigate this transition.
- Connect with your loved ones. Share your experiences and feelings with friends and family to gather emotional support. Leaning on loved ones can help reduce the burden and encourage you through challenging moments.
Following these steps can help you manage hearing loss and anxiety, build confidence and find the support you need. To learn more about managing hearing loss, contact Southwestern Hearing & Balance today for an appointment with one of our specialists.