Anxious About Hearing Loss? We Hear You

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Hearing loss is a common condition that many people experience, but it can add a layer of complexity to your everyday life. Even with hearing aids you may occasionally struggle with communication issues, there might be times you have to remove your hearing aids and worry about how you will function without them, and although hearing loss is nothing to be ashamed of, those feelings can sometimes creep in and derail your confidence.

If your partner is the one experiencing hearing loss, that can take its toll too. It’s difficult to see the person you love struggle in any way, but it can also be frustrating when communicating isn’t as easy as it once was – especially if your partner is reluctant to explore simple solutions like hearing aids.

So, what can you do if hearing loss is generating anxious thoughts and causing a hum of anxiety throughout the day?

1. Get checked out. If you haven’t already, make an appointment to see a hearing healthcare professional. You can book a free, no obligation hearing test at a HearingLife clinic near you. Understanding what you’re experiencing and knowing what solutions are available to you is empowering. And getting back some of the control you may have felt slipping away can be life changing.

2. Try breathing exercises. Perhaps one of the simplest ways to help regulate anxiety, practicing mindful breathing works because it makes your body feel the way it does when it’s relaxed. When we’re anxious, our breaths can tend to be shallow and quick, but when we’re feeling calm and peaceful, we take deeper breaths. Try belly breathing, 4-7-8 breathing or the morning breathing technique to help you relax and relieve stress. These simple breathing exercises are a great tool to have in your kit because they can be done virtually anywhere.

3. Explore mindful meditation. Meditation isn’t about clearing your mind and having no thoughts. It’s simply about sitting in the present moment and letting your thoughts about the past or the future recede while you experience the sensations of being you, right here, right now. It’s a good way to ground yourself and calm your swirling mind. A quick online search is all it takes to find more information on the different kinds of meditation and how to practice them.

4. Get moving. There is so much evidence that moving your body can improve your mood and help manage stress, so make an effort to get regular physical exercise as often as you can. Always check with your doctor before starting any new exercise program to ensure that it’s safe for you, particularly if you have underlying health conditions.

5. Talk it out. Sometimes all we need is to share about our worries and cares with someone who understands. Reaching out to a trusted friend or family member can provide relief, but don’t be afraid to seek the advice of a professional if you find that your anxiety is too difficult for you to manage on your own. Help is available and there’s no shame in asking for it.

Living with hearing loss can sometimes be stressful, but one of the most important things to know is that there are hearing professionals who are ready and able to help.

In fact, over 750,000 clients have trusted HearingLife with their hearing healthcare needs, and they form the largest network of hearing clinics with over 350 network clinics across Canada. Staffed by certified hearing healthcare professionals, HearingLife offers the most advanced hearing aid technology and up-to-date diagnostic equipment, as well as clinical support and exclusive 360-AfterCare.

Visit HearingLife today and get ready to #SwitchLifeOn.


CARP members save additional 10% off the regular price or limited-time promotional price of select hearing aids sold at HearingLife and our national affiliated partners, proud sponsors of the Campaign for Better Hearing, and earn up to 2,000 AIR MILES® reward miles with their purchase!

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