Effects of hearing loss
When somebody you know may be suffering from untreated hearing loss, you will probably also notice changes in his/her social behaviour, just like there will be a number of psychological effects.
Typically, not all of them will occur and some will be more evident than others.
Social effects
- The person withdraws from his/her surroundings
- The 'personality' changes
- Conversations become shorter, less frequent, less spontaneous and less personal
- The person has become less attentive and/or avoids social gatherings and noisy surroundings
- Reduced social contact and less social and physical activity
- Loss of intimacy
- Problems at work
- Sexual problems
Common psychological consequences
- Shame, guilt and anger
- Embarrassment
- Lack of concentration
- Sadness or depression
- Worry and frustration
- Anxiety and suspiciousness
- Insecurity
- Self-criticism and low self-confidence
Untreated hearing loss can also make the person irritable and less tolerant towards other people. Some may even become paranoid.