TMS THERAPY
FDA-cleared, non-medication depression treatment
Marris Adikwu
Medically reviewed on 11/16/2020 by
Dr. Geoffrey Grammer
Chief Medical Officer
Losing a physical ability like seeing or hearing is a major life change that can present unprecedented emotional challenges. Because these conditions can complicate communication and prevent you from engaging in activities you enjoy, there's a link between vision or hearing loss and depression. Understanding this link will help you cope with these challenges and find the support you need.
The extreme stress and uncertainty that comes with losing physical abilities like hearing and sight can take a toll on your mental health and contribute to depression. For example, losing your eyesight can make it more difficult to do the things you've been used to structuring your life around, from driving and cooking to shopping and reading. This may leave you feeling frustrated or hopeless. Similarly, losing your hearing can strain your ability to have conversations and communicate with others, which can make you feel isolated. According to one 2019 study, the connection between hearing loss and depression is particularly apparent for hearing-impaired adults, as one in five has symptoms of clinical depression. People with substantial vision loss may also be more prone to depression, particularly those who are dependent on others for performing daily activities. Although these facts may seem unfavorable, know that you have the ability to successfully treat depression symptoms and live a healthy life after these changes.
When you lose your vision or hearing ability, it's important to receive both practical and emotional support. Your doctor is one person who can provide support by referring you to a rehabilitation specialist or occupational therapist who can help you overcome some of the new challenges you're facing. You can also learn to cope with your vision or hearing loss with the help of peer-led support groups. Meeting with people who are dealing with similar issues on a regular basis gives you a chance to talk about the things you're going through, ask questions to those who have experienced them, and get feedback and support. Finally, there are many online resources to help people with vision and hearing loss. Learning about these tools and using them frequently can help you maximize your own independence and keep depression at bay. Like any chronic condition, vision loss and hearing loss require those affected to adapt. While you come to terms with these changes, your health care providers, friends, and family can help give you the support you need to remain independent, active, and emotionally healthy.
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There's a distinction between grieving for the loss of your vision or hearing abilities and experiencing depression. At the early stages, you may have trouble sleeping, see changes in your appetite, and face difficulty in enjoying the things you're used to. This is a common part of grief. However, if these symptoms persist beyond a few weeks and you feel yourself becoming socially withdrawn, it could be a sign of depression. Some of the most common depression treatment options include talk therapy and antidepressant medication, which can help reduce your symptoms. Cognitive behavioral therapy may be recommended as a way to help you reframe your perceptions about your vision or hearing loss and come to terms with the situation in a way that allows you to better cope with it. If you've gone through several treatments without finding relief, another option worth considering is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), which involves stimulating the brain with magnetic pulses in order to improve chemical activity and mood regulation. TMS is a non-invasive and drug-free treatment with minimal side effects, but if you have any questions about whether it might be right for you, schedule a no-cost consultation. Changes to your sight or hearing can understandably take a toll on your mental health. With the right support and treatment, you can overcome these challenges and live a full, healthy life.
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