If you read our blog posts, chances are you have hearing loss. As hearing is integral to communication and socializing, hearing loss can have many effects on how well you socialize. Let’s discuss this connection and how to socialize with confidence, especially during the vibrant, warm summer months, when you’re likely to have more plans.
Hearing Loss and Loss of Confidence
Difficulties in social settings will cause you to withdraw from others, whether you’re doing so intentionally or not. Studies have shown that hearing loss is connected to:
- Feelings of loneliness or social isolation
- Weakened social network
- Increased rates of depression and anxiety
- Decreased work performance
- Decreased independence and self-efficacy
All of these will greatly impact your confidence.
Treating Hearing Loss: The First Step in Rebuilding Confidence
The good news is that treating hearing loss can reverse many of the effects listed above! Getting reconnected to the world with hearing aids allows you to reenter conversations, strengthen your relationships and feel more certain that you’re involved in your community in a meaningful way.
Communication Strategies That Build Confidence
Once you’ve got your hearing aids, there are some communication strategies you can use to project and build confidence.
- Use your body language. Maintain direct eye contact, fully face the person speaking, nod along and make facial expressions that indicate your understanding. All of these will project to the person you’re speaking with that you’re engaged, and you’ll feel more present in the conversation as a result.
- Repeat back what you heard. Instant feedback can provide a great boost of confidence! During a conversation, paraphrasing what someone just said shows both you and your conversation partner that you’re following along and listening intently. Use phrases like “So what I hear you saying is…” or “As I understand it…”
- Say “yes.” Have you ever seen the movie “Yes Man” with Jim Carrey? In this movie, the main character begins a project of saying “yes” to everything: every invitation, every request, every idea. Shenanigans ensue (this is a Jim Carrey film, after all), but the lesson stands: saying “yes” can inject a lot of positivity in your life. Accept invitations and join in when you’re called upon!
Talk to Your Audiologist
We know how to use your hearing aids to their full potential. By making use of advanced hearing aid features, such as background noise suppression and speech amplification, you can hear conversations better than ever. If you need your settings adjusted or want a specialized hearing program, ask us to set one up for you!
Contact Gary D. Schwartzberg, Au.D., Doctor of Audiology today to learn more about how hearing aids can help you rebuild your confidence and socialize with joy this summer.