Hello, everyone--I am actually here looking for support for my husband, Michael, via his request.
He had a sudden onset of tinnitus 5 years ago, after having 70% hearing loss in right ear for most of his life (he is now 50). He visited the Washington U. clinic at that time, and tests did not determine any physically attributable cause for the tinnitus. He successfully habituated until 02/2014, when his sound suddenly changed, increased in volume, and most distressing of all, travelled to his "good" left ear, as well.
He describes his severity level at Grade 5, "catastrophic".
This new development has caused chronic insomnia and deepening depression, including frequent thoughts of death, a vicious cycle I know many of you are all too familiar with. His own research into treatments has led him to fear any meds or therapies that might cause worsening of his condition, as well as a fear of trying therapies that just don't work, as that lessens hope of help. At this point, we've agreed that he really needs a counselor that can help him with CBT, and get the depression/anxiety under control. He went back to Wash U. in April, but didn't get much hope or help there.
Any referrals to Doctors, Therapists, Clinics, etc. in the St. Louis area would be appreciated more than you can know. At this point, we are also willing to travel, if absolutely necessary. Our insurance is not good, but you have to do what you have to do! I found this website while researching Dr. Jennifer Gans and the mindfulness therapy she is leading. This is the type of therapy my husband is most looking for.
Thank you all so much for having this group and your support.
Nita Reddy
He had a sudden onset of tinnitus 5 years ago, after having 70% hearing loss in right ear for most of his life (he is now 50). He visited the Washington U. clinic at that time, and tests did not determine any physically attributable cause for the tinnitus. He successfully habituated until 02/2014, when his sound suddenly changed, increased in volume, and most distressing of all, travelled to his "good" left ear, as well.
He describes his severity level at Grade 5, "catastrophic".
This new development has caused chronic insomnia and deepening depression, including frequent thoughts of death, a vicious cycle I know many of you are all too familiar with. His own research into treatments has led him to fear any meds or therapies that might cause worsening of his condition, as well as a fear of trying therapies that just don't work, as that lessens hope of help. At this point, we've agreed that he really needs a counselor that can help him with CBT, and get the depression/anxiety under control. He went back to Wash U. in April, but didn't get much hope or help there.
Any referrals to Doctors, Therapists, Clinics, etc. in the St. Louis area would be appreciated more than you can know. At this point, we are also willing to travel, if absolutely necessary. Our insurance is not good, but you have to do what you have to do! I found this website while researching Dr. Jennifer Gans and the mindfulness therapy she is leading. This is the type of therapy my husband is most looking for.
Thank you all so much for having this group and your support.
Nita Reddy
Member
