Hearing loss, social isolation and mental health in Aotearoa

Hearing loss is more than a health issue

Hearing loss is often talked about in medical terms — hearing tests, devices, and decibel levels. But research from Aotearoa shows that its impact reaches much further than hearing alone.

For many people, hearing loss changes how they connect with others. Conversations take more effort. Background noise becomes overwhelming. Group settings feel harder to navigate. Over time, some people begin to withdraw — not because they want to be alone, but because staying connected becomes exhausting.

New Zealand public-health research consistently frames hearing loss as a social condition as much as a sensory one, with strong links to isolation, reduced participation, and poorer wellbeing.

This matters — because connection is fundamental to how we live, belong, and thrive.

Social isolation: a common but often hidden experience

Research and public-health commentary in New Zealand repeatedly identify social isolation and loneliness as common experiences for people with hearing loss, particularly when it goes untreated or unsupported.

People may begin to:

• Avoid group conversations or noisy environments

• Stop attending social or community events

• Feel embarrassed asking others to repeat themselves

• Withdraw from whānau or friendship circles

The Public Health Communication Centre (NZ) describes untreated hearing loss as being associated with increased social isolation, anxiety, and depression.

“Untreated hearing loss is a large direct cause of disability and is associated with increased risk of social isolation, depression and anxiety.” PHCC

Mental wellbeing and the emotional weight of disconnection

The link between hearing loss and mental wellbeing is well established in New Zealand and Australian research.

Studies consistently show higher levels of emotional distress among Deaf and hard of hearing people compared with hearing populations. Importantly, researchers emphasise that this is not caused by hearing loss itself, but by ongoing communication barriers, exclusion, and lack of accessible support.

“The frustration and isolation that can come from hearing loss can lead to depression and anxiety.” Pindrop Foundation

The hopeful message within the research is clear: when communication improves and inclusion increases, wellbeing improves too.

You’re not imagining it — and you’re not alone

One of the most important findings across the body of research is validation.

If hearing loss has made you feel:

• Tired after conversations

• Left out in group settings

• Less confident socially

You are not alone — and you are not to blame.

These experiences appear repeatedly across New Zealand and international research. They reflect barriers in environments and systems, not personal shortcomings.

Why awareness makes a real difference

Hearing Awareness Month is not only for people with hearing loss. It’s for families, workplaces, and communities.

Simple actions — facing someone when you speak, reducing background noise, choosing inclusive communication methods — can significantly reduce isolation.

Awareness reduces stigma. Inclusion restores connection.

Looking ahead: connection is possible

While the research clearly outlines challenges, it also points toward hope.

Early support, inclusive environments, and greater awareness can make a real difference — helping people stay connected to what matters most. Across Aotearoa, education, outreach, and community programmes delivered by Deaf and Hard of Hearing Foundation are working to reduce isolation, improve understanding, and ensure no one is left to navigate hearing loss alone.

As we approach Hearing Awareness Month, You are not alone is both a message and a commitment — to listen more deeply, include more fully, and build communities where everyone truly belongs.

If this blog resonates with you, we invite you to learn more about the programmes supporting Deaf and hard of hearing people across New Zealand — and how awareness, early action, and community support can help break the cycle of isolation.

Research referenced:

• Public Health Communication Centre (NZ): Hearing loss & social isolation – the silent burden

• Deaf Aotearoa: Position Statement on Mental Health Services

• Australian research on Deaf and hard of hearing mental wellbeing

• New Zealand hearing-health and audiology public-education articles