In past articles, we have established that hearing loss often has an overtly negative impact on the mental health and well-being of the affected individual. The psychological effects of hearing loss can be significant and far-reaching. It then begs the question:

Do hearing aids and other interventions that improve hearing loss also improve mental health?  

When an individual can reconnect with the world around them through the use of hearing aids or other interventions, it can have a profoundly positive impact on their mental health. Being able to hear and engage in conversations with loved ones, enjoy music and the sounds of nature, and participate in social activities can help to combat feelings of isolation and loneliness that result from the impact of hearing loss. This may improve overall mood and reduce the negative symptoms of anxiety and depression. 

It’s important to note that not everyone experiences hearing loss in the same way, and individuals may miss different sounds and experiences based on their own unique preferences. For this reason, it’s important to approach the effects of hearing loss with empathy and understanding. 

Treating hearing loss can allow an individual to experience a range of sounds they may have been missing, like music and sounds from nature. Studies show that experiencing these sounds can have a positive impact on mental health. These sounds are often associated with positive emotions and relaxation. 

A study published in 2021 (Buxton) examined the mental health benefits of bird sounds. The researchers used smartphone-based surveys to investigate the relationship between birdlife and mental health. Participants were prompted to complete short surveys throughout the day, reporting on their moods and experiences with bird sounds. The study found that exposure to birdlife and the accompanying sounds was associated with improved mood and lower levels of anxiety and depression.

In their paper, “A synthesis of health benefits of natural sounds and their distribution in national parks,” Buxton and colleagues also reviewed existing research on the impact of natural sounds on health. The review found that exposure to sounds in nature can reduce stress, improve mood, and promote relaxation.

The researchers concluded that nature could be a valuable resource for improving mental and overall physical health.

Hammoud and colleagues (2022) asked 1300 people to use a smartphone phone to record their encounters with birds and their mental well-being. They showed that daily encounters with birds were associated with better mental health.

Together, these studies suggest that exposure to nature and natural sounds can have a positive impact on mental health and well-being. Birdlife, in particular, is a valuable outlet for positive experiences and mood regulation.

Hearing is one of our most important senses, allowing us to engage with the world around us and connect with others. When hearing loss occurs, it can have a significant impact on mental health and overall quality of life.

The ability to hear sounds like music and nature is also closely linked to improved mental health symptoms. However, individuals with untreated hearing loss may miss out on these benefits. Thus, treating hearing loss can have a significant impact on mental health by helping individuals reconnect with the world around them and hear sounds that promote health and happiness. Hearing aids and other interventions that improve hearing loss can thus be an important tool for improving mental health outcomes and overall quality of life.

Researchers at Ear Science are working on hearing and mental well-being.

Dr Bec Bennett and colleagues have shown that poor hearing has a negative effect on psychological health and mental well-being. People often feel left out and lonely. Dr Dona Jayakody and colleagues have shown that poorer hearing reduces cognition (thinking skills). She is currently conducting a clinical trial of hearing aids and their effect on cognition and on psychological health.