We are very different. Just like finding a diet that works for our metabolism and lifestyle, coping strategies are similar (in fact, diet and exercise are important - read on). It can take a few years to find what works then even this can change very quickly as our personal circumstances and lifestyles change.
My Tinnitus is caused by hearing loss which is a result of damage to my eardrums from an operation as child. Note: I'm just saying and the worse thing I could do is play the blame game. It is what it is!
Here has what worked for me and a little about what hasn't necessarily helped or has taken time.
This is from my experience, some of which I've picked up from information, especially the Tinnitus UK website that is an invaluable source for good research - tinnitus.org.uk. Use it to verify other information and so-called cures. Generally speaking "if it sounds too good to be true..." well, you know the rest of that phrase. For those with subjective tinnitus there is no cure.
Unfortunately, it can be a bumpy adventure, and one where you may not have all the answers. Just when you think you're coping, and achieved habituation, situations and other health issues come back and exacerbate it. It can feel like you're having to start over again. When this does happen, it's important to remember the good times and those positive experiences. Remind yourself often that you've done it before (however momentarily that might be), so you can do it again.
Acceptance is key
My usual response is that 'acceptance is key.' However, this is or can a very over-simplistic. Until you come to understand your Tinnitus you it's very difficult to come to terms with. This also involves waiting for medical appointments and inconclusive results. Be patient. At least ensure you eliminate anything more serious.
Sertraline (antidepressants)
A broken little finger and a foot shaped hole in the cupboard door under the sink later, I decided to give antidepressants another chance. I tried a number of antidepressants but with awful side effects or just feeling worse. Thankfully, I found Sertraline finally worked for me.
I've been taking Sertraline to help with my anxiety. I was on 150mg for at least 2-years which seemed to work. However, following other health circumstances, I reduce my dose over a month to 50mg. I think I'd come to take Sertraline for granted, and reducing this dose had a negative impact, on my own mood and for family. So I've increased my dose back to 150mg and I'm in a much better place.
Sleep and sleeping tablets
Lack of sleep is my nemesis. It can really catch up with me. Unfortunately I've never been a very good at sleeping.
I wear a music headband which also acts as a sleep mask. However,my tinnitus can become over powering and competes. However, increasing the volume is futile.
Whilst I limit my caffeine to before the morning, having a sleeping tablet now and then is helpful. Unfortunately I started taking them too regular and they start having almost no benefit. Speak to your GP!!!
Exercise and diet
From my experience there is no substitute for tackling mental health and other health issues with finding an outlet for releasing frustrations with an adrenaline rush that comes from not just a healthy lifestyle.
Having said that the healthy lifestyle, namely diet, is mutually exclusive. As I read recently, all these fads are nonsense. You need to burn more calories than you consume.
Exercise and diet are difficult and require motivation with clear goals and noticable benefits, but as much as anything need to be part of our weekly routines. Luckily I am a member of a gym which run cross-fit sessions. It is not cheapest, but the instructors and other members hold each other to account.
Family and friends
If you're like me, I hate feeling like I just 'go on and on' about my tinnitus
Our experiences are difficult to explain and (it feels) difficult for others to understand. We needs to speak to family and friends to at least make them aware of what we're going through.
However, we risk talking about it so often we lose sympathy. I've now limited my replies to my wife, if she asks, to "my tinnitus is just really annoying today", or an almost throw away comment "just the usual",
Nonetheless, these are the people you need to speak to about it.
Hearing aids
Another strategy that has taken a couple of years are hearing aids. These can be programmed to include masking - ask you audiologist. Before hand I used to wear headphones. However, these are not helpful as it masks the tinnitus too much which can delay or prevent habituation.
So, I now find it much easier to cope with public places. The hearing aids in 'normal' mode helps reduce my tinnitus with picking up more background noise, or the masking program can help me switch off and read the paper for example even in a relatively noisy coffee shop.
Last of all, find a support group (like this one - youll be pushed to find one as supportive and friendly as this one). Stay engaged and try to help others by sharing your journey and experiences.
All the best, and I hope sharing my experiences, it helps others
Clarithromycin made my tinnitus worse 
Check out my youtube channel for overcoming tinnitus! :) 
