Struggling to cope...

[Help11]

Hi, I first got tinnitus about 8 years ago, seen a ENT specialist and after getting hearing aids, combined with a sound unit at my bedside it lessened to having no impact on my life. In fact I used to explain to folk if they ever get it, their brain would habituate to it over time. Hopefully still true for some sufferers. My T returned 11 months ago, tried all my old tricks to get brain to habituate to no avail. Its now hit me hard and no releif whatsoever. Constant siren in one ear and hissing in other or both. Much worse after I have driven for some reason.

I'm now trying a sodium free diet as last throw of the dice. I'm on anti depressant, and honestly don't know how long I can suffer anymore. Just no idea what to do...tried everything...at my wit's end

[Happyrosie]

Oh dear Help. But you’ve done it once and you will do it again - habituate. Please consider the helpline of the British tinnitus Association on Monday morning,

[doglover1973]

I'm so sorry Help11 I don't know what to suggest. It sounds like you've got to grips with T once so hopefully you 'll be able to do it again - as Happyrosie says. I know there are no easy answers. I really hope a sodium free diet brings you some relief . All the best.

[surreycccfan]

Hi Help11, sorry to hear you are struggling.

As you are on anti depressants have you discussed how you feel with your GP. I found doing CBT really helped me in being able to cope with living with T plus some of the tools I learnt really helped me me move forward in managing my T. Maybe speak to your GP about CBT.

If you are really struggling with your mental health, if you are ever in crisis you can always talk to Samaritans samaritans.org/ (Phone - 116 123 and Email - [e-mail]) and/or Mind mind.org.uk/ (Phone – 0300 123 3393 or text 86463 - Email [e-mail])

Have you been back to an audiologist or ENT since your first visit 8 years ago? If not then maybe worth getting a referral to discuss a management plan, if the things you have tried before do not work they may be able to suggest another behavioral approach that could help.

Stay Safe