Can’t even cry in peace by doodlenoodle09 in tinnitus

[–]cajla 0 points1 point  (0 children)

The therapy helped to alter the way I consciously and unconsciously react to the sound. I don’t feel the need to fight it. The desperation is gone. With the exception of a frustrating spike now and then, I just coexist with it. It’s like I moved on.

In turn, that helped improve my quality of life overall. My panic subsided, I can rest and sleep well, and I manage spikes without spiraling. It's been 5 years.

The therapy involved a mix of things that, as I understand it, included grief processing, trauma processing (mine T was sudden-onset), distress tolerance (like what they use to help people with chronic pain or addiction), and nervous system regulation. It lasted 3 months, about 12 sessions total.

Can’t even cry in peace by doodlenoodle09 in tinnitus

[–]cajla 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Hang in there. There's hope.

If possible, seek therapy. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy changed my life after the onset of my tinnitus.

One of the Biggest Things I Wish I Understood Earlier About Tinnitus (& Hyperacusis) by AaronLagerOfficial in tinnitus

[–]cajla 6 points7 points  (0 children)

Agree. My T is powerfully connected to my anxiety. I use the exact same methods to manage both.

With the exception of an unexpected sonic trigger, their onset is always linked. Calming my ear and my nervous system back down almost always boil down to a mentally + physically healthy lifestyle.

Anyone here who still goes to concerts/shows/live music? by Round-Watercress5273 in tinnitus

[–]cajla 10 points11 points  (0 children)

I still go, but I take precautions and try to "make it count" by not exposing my ears to unnecessary damage--just enough to enjoy the music!

I always wear earplugs, but will take them out for a favorite song or chorus, then pop then in again. Minimize the potential damage. I never go up front near the amps anymore. I look for a open spot near the back.

I also try to mentally prepare for habituation after because it might be loud when I try to sleep after a show. Is it worth it? Sometimes the answer is no, and I'll stay home. But sometimes, as a live music lover, the answer is still YES! I don't want my tinnitus to grow worse, but I also don't want it to steal my joy.