We can agree that mental health and hearing health are both important, yet it wasn’t until the results of recent studies were released that a strong correlation between the two was confirmed. Depression in particular has been linked to hearing loss and unfortunately both conditions, being “invisible” conditions, often go unacknowledged, unrecognized or untreated. Along with depression, clients with untreated hearing loss are known to experience anxiety, paranoia, relationship problems, low self-esteem, stress and other negative emotions. Those with hearing loss can find communication difficult. Difficulty communicating can lead to stress, fatigue, and social isolation. And social isolation leads to depression, especially in older adults. But it wasn’t until recently that researchers were able to show that is was more of a problem than previously thought. If you are experiencing age-related hearing loss, don’t delay talking with a hearing aid practitioner, as well as a trusted mental health professional.