Tinnitus from Stress or Burnout: Looking for Advice and Experiences

[Delta12]

I have had tinnitus for one week now, and it started after New Year's.

Previously, I noticed my hearing did not feel as good anymore, but I ignored it.

I was doing too much, working, exercising, and managing too many hobbies. I never allowed myself to relax. Even when I had free time, I was always busy with something.

Last week, it got so bad that I went to my doctor. His conclusion was burnout and depression. I also experienced a little bit of "the flu."

Now I have signed up for therapy, including a tinnitus therapy program. I have also started taking medication.

I have a lot of people I can talk to, and many of them warned me that I was doing too much and would eventually crash. I have learned that tinnitus can be a reaction to stress or depression. Someone described it as my brain being "overcooked."

At times, I also participated in World War II reenactments and used blank fire weapons. Maybe that was another trigger.

Are there others here who have tinnitus related to stress or burnout? And if so, are you using medication?

 

[billie48]

At times, I also participated in World War II reenactments and used blank fire weapons. Maybe that was another trigger.

Are there others here who have tinnitus related to stress or burnout? And if so, are you using medication?

You may have experienced acoustic trauma from firing those weapons, as it can be a cumulative issue. Stress is also a common contributing factor to tinnitus, and it's possible that multiple factors caused your condition.

If stress is a key factor, it's beneficial to engage in relaxation activities or exercises such as leisure walking, hiking, spending time outdoors, practicing yoga, or meditating. Deep abdominal breathing can also help reduce stress. You can find instructional videos on YouTube to guide you.

To improve sleep and promote calmness, consider using melatonin or drinking chamomile tea. Maintaining a positive mindset and living your life as normally as possible can lead to improvement over time. If necessary, try using tinnitus masking sounds, but it's best to avoid headphones when doing so.

Take care, and I wish you a smooth recovery.

 

[Delta12]

Thank you for your advice. I have been using Wellbutrin for four days and read on this forum that tinnitus is one of the biggest side effects, along with sleeplessness. Because of this, I plan to stop using it first.

I hope to talk to you soon.