Misophonia
Misophonia is a type of sound sensitivity in which a specific sound in a specific context triggers an emotional reaction (irritation, disgust, aggression, stress, panic, etc.).
The sound that causes the negative reaction is often made by humans (e.g. someone chewing, spouse snoring, etc.) and is not necessarily loud.
People with this sensitivity may also suffer from an anxiety disorder, depression or an obsessive-compulsive disorder. Misophonia can impact a person’s daily activities and social life.
- They may have difficulty sharing meals with their family or sleeping next to their spouse.
- They may also avoid certain social activities, overprotect their hearing or become more prone to tension, conflict and isolation.
If you think you have misophonia, a complete hearing test by an audiologist will give you a clearer picture of the issue, and the audiologist will be able to give you advice on how to manage your triggers.
Cognitive-behavioural therapy (psychological treatment) can also help you separate the annoying sound from the problematic emotional response.
BY MÉLANIE BRIÈRE, Audiologist, Polyclinique de l’Oreille
