Hearing loss affects more than 10% of the U.S. population. Finding out you have hearing loss is an emotional experience. Many people feel sad, confused and even angry. While it may feel easier to squash these feelings, dealing with them head-on is an essential step in accepting your hearing loss diagnosis. Let’s take a look at three common reasons people feel angry after a hearing loss diagnosis and what you can do to manage these feelings as they arise.
Feeling Like You Lost Control
Learning you have hearing loss can feel like you’re suddenly losing control of your life. You might feel frustrated when you think about how hearing loss will affect your ability to communicate, connect with loved ones and navigate your daily life. When you feel this way, pick one solid thing to focus on. This could be scheduling your next audiology appointment, talking to your family about hearing loss or even setting aside a fun day to sit and relax in a Hampton library with a good book.
Anger From Feeling Like Your Body Is Letting You Down
It’s completely natural to feel like your body is letting you down after a hearing loss diagnosis. You may feel frustrated that something in your body is changing beyond your control.
When these feelings come up, try to think of hearing loss the way you would a physical injury. If you sprained your ankle, you wouldn’t blame yourself or feel like your body failed you—you’d recognize that injuries happen, and you’d focus on healing and adapting. The same goes for hearing loss. While it may not be reversible in many cases, hearing aids can help you manage or adjust to the condition, just like a crutch or boot would with an ankle sprang.
Anger From Fear
Anger can also stem from fear of isolation, missing out or being misunderstood. While these are all normal fears, try to focus on the positives of treatment. Think about how hearing aids can amplify speech to help you connect with your loved ones. Focus on the fact that you finally know why you’ve been struggling to understand others. More than anything, try to focus on the fact that you have a support system.
We’re here to support you through every step of your hearing journey. If you have any questions or concerns about hearing loss, don’t hesitate to reach out to Hampton Roads ENT ~ Allergy.