Sounds Drive me Crazy - Is it Misophonia?

Literally meaning a “hatred of sound”, misophonia is a neurophysiological condition in which people have a disproportionately negative reaction to specific sounds. - The Conversation

Do you find that someone slurping a drink, yawning, sniffling, tapping their fingers or constantly clicking their pen driving you crazy? Individuals that suffer from  Misophonia have a strong emotional response and a desire to stop the sound or escape from it. These people are aware that they are overreacting to particular sounds, but they don’t have control over their reactions.

Those suffering from the condition have an adverse reaction to what others might view as ‘background’ sounds. The reactions range from mild to severe. If you feel uncomfortable, disgust, the urge to flee or anxious when exposed to these sounds you might have a mild reaction. Those suffering from severe Misophonia might react in rage, anger, hatred, panic, fear, emotional distress and even the desire to kill or stop what is causing the sound.

Try and manage your symptoms and the triggers by:

• Using headphones to drown out triggering sounds

• Choose seats in restaurants or public places that are less noisy

• Practice self-care to help reduce stress and angst

• Leave situations that could be triggering ahead of time

• Explain your discomfort to friends so that they can support you

• Seek out a professional therapist to discuss triggers and treatment

If you want to learn more about this disorder and the treatment options, you can schedule a session with me at my practice in Lancaster, PA.