My Journey to Tinnitus Habituation — Anxiety Was My Biggest Barrier

[Nebraska84]

Hi everyone!

I am just posting this before heading out. I developed tinnitus in the fall of 2019, likely due to a combination of hearing damage and stress. It bothered me for a long time, and I often came here to read success stories. Now, I want to share my own.

To help myself, I worked hard to reduce stress, spent more time outdoors, started seeing a counselor, and began taking anxiety medication. I also worked with an online counselor who specializes in tinnitus, and he was absolutely amazing. Although his services were expensive, they were worth it. You can find him with a quick Google search.

For me, pairing anxiety medication with radical acceptance led to habituation. These days, I rarely think about tinnitus. When I do hear it, it does not bother me. It is simply a part of who I am now. Honestly, it would feel strange not to have it as part of me anymore.

Key takeaway: Anxiety is often the biggest barrier to habituation. Once you get it under control, things will improve. Life is good, so keep pushing forward and never lose hope!

 

[delta784]

You were mild, moderate, and stable, right? Congratulations on your success! Unfortunately, some of us aren't as lucky. I have reactive tinnitus and noxacusis, which makes it impossible to habituate.

 

[Hardwell]

Yes, the OP seems to have experienced tinnitus to a similar degree as 90% of others who have it. This condition isn't a competition, and there's no need to dismiss those who have found relief.

@Nebraska84, I'm glad to hear you're in a much better place. I'm sure your story will provide reassurance to others who visit this thread seeking hope.