‘Tis the season for self-care & socializing. This is a common time for flare-ups if you have tinnitus or hyperacusis.
I’ve gathered together some coping strategies, soundscapes, and tips on how to manage better. This includes suggestions on how to support folks with hyperacusis or tinnitus by respecting their listening needs.
My video talking about Coping Tools for Hyperacusis & Tinnitus is from my YouTube channel Safe Sound Science. The handout or pdf and resources mentioned in the video are from my website janlmayes.ca/tools including:
- Handout (PDF): Tinnitus & Hyperacusis Coping Toolbox including suggestions for quiet supporters
- Handout (PDF): Suggestions for Quiet Supporters
- SoundPrint app or “Yelp for noise” to help find quiet venues.
- HeardThat app for smartphones or hearing aids to better understand speech in background noise.
Take care of yourself. This can be a stressful time for many people. It’s worse if environments are uncomfortable. Or if you get tired faster from straining to understand conversations in crowded or loud soundscapes.
Don’t forget that it’s okay to communicate your listening needs for social situations. Consider invites or events based on quiet support offered or possible. Amp up relaxation and communication strategies to cope better before, during, and after outings. It’s also okay to give yourself permission to relax and care for yourself.
Quiet cheers, Jan