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Acknowledging a limitation can be very difficult. On the surface level, we don’t want to deal with the practical implications of that limit, including the inconveniences and resources that may need to be employed. However, on a much deeper level, admitting to a limitation can even conflict with our sense of identity.
For these reasons, acknowledging a limitation can come with a whole host of emotional and mental responses, and each person will react quite differently to the news that a limitation is getting in the way of a human function. Whether that limitation is great or small, the admission that we are indeed mere mortals can be a difficult pill to swallow. One of the most common bodily limitations that most people will face, especially later in life, is hearing loss.
Along with memory loss and vision impairment, the years bring limitations that we would rather not admit to ourselves. Let’s take a moment to consider some of the common responses to the news of hearing loss, as well as some ways to come to terms with the reality. The best way to cope with the news of hearing loss is to seek a solution in the form of treatment!
Denial
The first phase many people experience when they receive the news that they have hearing loss is denial. At the early stage of onset, hearing loss may be subtle and easy to ignore. Noticing that you have more difficulty hearing voices in a restaurant or a presentation in a large room can sometimes be swept under the rug.
However, as hearing loss progresses, it becomes increasingly difficult to ignore. Particularly when a hearing health professional or audiologist gives you a diagnosis of hearing loss, your mind needs to do mental gymnastics to continue to deny the limitation. Admitting hearing loss to oneself is a crucial first step in the direction of seeking a solution.
Anger
Even those who can admit to themselves that they have hearing loss can continue to experience anger at that reality. Whether that anger is directed at other people who are not sufficiently able to accommodate your hearing needs or if you take out that anger on yourself, the feeling of frustration tends to feed itself rather than dissipate. It can take time and a community of support to overcome the feeling of anger at your hearing limitations, particularly when they get in the way of the activities you enjoy most.
Depression
In the worst cases, the news of hearing loss can lead to depression, a feeling of hopelessness in the face of reality. Knowing that hearing ability will most likely never be what it once was, some people get trapped in a feeling of regret and sadness, wishing they would be able to return to full engagement in activities that require acute hearing. Those with tinnitus—persistent ringing in the ears—can become depressed as well, believing that they will never be able to escape these sounds.
Solutions
The best way to cope with one or a combination of these common responses to hearing loss is to focus on solutions! Hearing assistance has made remarkable steps in the direction of providing a full spectrum of hearing, making it possible to return to the activities that you once enjoyed most.
Rather than remaining in feelings of denial, anger, or depression, why not take the first steps toward these solutions by scheduling a hearing test. The test itself is easy, quick, and painless, and the results will make it possible for our team to recommend hearing aids that are suited to your individual hearing profile and lifestyle needs.
Though it can take some time to adjust to the new world of sound provided by hearing aids, they can offer a remarkable improvement when it comes to conversational ability and activities of daily life. The time is now to move beyond the initial feelings of denial, anger, and frustration. Make your appointment today!