Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

[Pinhead]

Distractions don't work for me. I can get involved in a movie or be around a group of people that distracts me from my tinnitus for a while, but I still feel high anxiety. My subconscious still picks up on it, even if I'm directing my focus elsewhere, and there's that automatic response from the sympathetic nervous system engaging the flight or fight response. There's still that layer of brain fog caused by tinnitus, even when I'm focusing on something else. If only it were that easy, I would have figured it out a long time ago. Although, years ago, when I had mild tinnitus, it was much easier. Having severe tinnitus is a whole different matter.

I apparently still hear it when I'm sleeping because I keep waking up after not sleeping for over two years. If not a cure, we at least need an effective treatment that significantly lowers tinnitus. Benzos help temporarily, at least, but that's not a good path to take.

I'm always surprised to hear this, too. I can't distract myself from tinnitus any more than I could distract myself from being on fire. Sex doesn't move my attention, either. I haven't had sex with my partner in nearly three months because it just feels like an unenjoyable chore because I am not even present for it.

 

[hopeinthedark]

Does anyone know of CBT therapists who offer virtual appointments? I am homebound and looking for options.

 

[AfroSnowman]

Does anyone know of CBT therapists who offer virtual appointments? I am homebound and looking for options.

CBT for Tinnitus with Dr. Hubbard. He does a class and private sessions.

 

[MatthijsDJ]

I prefer Acceptance over CBT. I found it to be way more beneficial personally. I mean, I'm still not thrilled with my tinnitus at all and it can still very much bother me, but acceptance has helped me manage it better throughout the day.

We still need proper treatments though. 100%


Volume definitely matters. This is why I hope we can measure it objectively one day to assess perceived loudness instead of depending on subjective reports. Through objective methods, we can show people how loud tinnitus can get.

It would be the best way to demonstrate the changing nature of this condition.

I agree with this. CBT helped me a little, but things became sustainable when I did Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, which is the latest version of CBT.

It is incredibly hard to accept the noise in my ears, and sometimes I still panic, but I learned to go with the flow and accept both the noise and the panic. It is as if I became bored with the panic and learned that it is only a feeling that will eventually leave my body, even if it takes fourteen days or something like that. I just focus on my work, my family, and gaming.

A small note, I am on antidepressants and antipsychotics for a different reason.