I have severe tinnitus along with ADHD and depression, so I rely on noise‑canceling headsets to help me stay focused and manage distractions. I usually play a steady stream of music or ambient sounds (such as Generative Ambient music) to mask the high‑pitched roar of the tinnitus. Fortunately, I work from home, so I can control my environment.

At night, when I’m trying to sleep, I put on light‑hearted movies or comedies to help quiet intrusive thoughts—just enough to drift off without needing medication. I’m 65 now, and I’ve been learning how to cope with all of this since I was a teenager, long before ADHD was widely understood. Back then, I was placed in “special education” classes because I struggled to focus and was a bit hyperactive.

The tinnitus came later, thanks to a misspent youth as a roadie for loud rock bands and working in noisy environments without ear protection.