CBT for tinnitus

Tinnitus is the perception of noises (buzzing, ringing, whistling or other noise) in the head and/or ear which have no external source. It can be constant or intermittent and it can vary in volume.  Although tinnitus is not a disease or illness, living with it can be challenging. Tinnitus distress can result in  developing symptoms of severe depression and anxiety.  

As someone affected by tinnitus I understand the fear and despair it can bring, especially in the early months. However, it is possible to learn to enjoy life again while having this condition.  CBT has been shown to be one of the most researched and the most effective treatments available to reduce the distress from tinnitus and increase the quality of life. It works through changing your relationship with tinnitus by a combination of developing new cognitive skills (including acceptance and mindfulness of the reality) and introducing helpful behavioural changes (sound enrichment and graded desensitisation). The end result is an increased sense of control over your life and the condition itself.