Skinjob

that's mild hyperacusis.

My tinnitus seems to worsen a few times a year. It's now much louder than it was just a few years ago. I have a set of 3M Peltors that I wear constantly, along with foam earplugs, I have the quietest job I could find, and I retired from writing songs, playing and singing years ago. But my ears are very unforgiving. However, I still want to live and I dream of making music again, like you do.

I don't play live anymore, but I can still create music and sing just fine as long as I keep the volume low and use speakers instead of headphones. But most days the T just drains my motivation for everything and I just play video games to escape my anxiety

If your tinnitus is highly reactive or if you suspect you are becoming hyperacusic, a glass or two (although I had three last night) of wine does take the edge off. Strangely, I feel that I can hear details in music a bit better when there is less pain, and alcohol lowers the pain of sound for me.

I also practice meditation, which makes me focus less on tinnitus even as loud as it has become. But my tinnitus at its recent levels has been a challenge.
I don't intend to become an alcoholic because of tinnitus. I want to try bimodal stimulation as soon as it is available in my country.

I've stopped meditating since I got T, and I also quit my job teaching yoga overnight. My mind used to be my sanctuary but now it's something I constantly try to escape. However, I have to find a way back to my practice or I'm lost. It's probably going to be more important than ever looking forward.