Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: A Game Changer for Tinnitus Distress

What is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is a common hearing problem that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by hearing sounds such as buzzing, ringing, hissing, or whistling. While some people can tolerate tinnitus, for others, it can be a source of immense distress and can impair their quality of life.

What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?

CBT is a type of talk therapy that involves identifying and changing irrational or unhelpful thoughts and behaviors that trigger emotional distress. It has been found to be effective in treating a wide range of mental health issues including anxiety disorders, OCD, and depression. In the case of tinnitus, CBT focuses on helping people change the way they think and feel about their tinnitus, so they can cope more effectively with the sounds they are hearing.

How does CBT help with Tinnitus Distress?

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has shown great promise in helping people cope with tinnitus distress. CBT helps people with tinnitus distress in two ways. The first is by changing negative thoughts and beliefs about tinnitus. This involves helping people understand and challenge negative thoughts about the meaning of their tinnitus, such as “the sound will never go away” or “this sound is ruining my life.” The second way CBT helps is by teaching people coping strategies for dealing with tinnitus sounds. These strategies might include relaxation techniques, distraction techniques, or exposure therapy, which involves gradually exposing the person to the sounds of their tinnitus in a controlled environment.

What are the Benefits of CBT for Tinnitus Distress?

CBT for tinnitus distress has been shown to have many benefits. First, it can reduce the impact of tinnitus on a person’s mental health and quality of life. Second, it can improve a person’s ability to cope with tinnitus sounds, so they are less bothersome. Finally, it can help people feel more in control of their tinnitus, which can be empowering. These benefits can be long-lasting, and people who go through CBT for tinnitus distress often report feeling better able to cope with their tinnitus sounds.

What to expect from CBT for Tinnitus Distress?

CBT for tinnitus distress usually involves weekly sessions with a skilled CBT therapist, length of therapy greatly the severity of the distress. During the sessions, therapists will work with clients to teach new cognitive techniques to help manage your tinnitus distress. You’ll also learn how to identify negative thoughts and beliefs that contribute to your tinnitus distress and how to challenge them. While CBT for tinnitus distress is not a cure for tinnitus, it can significantly reduce its impact on your quality of life, helping you to live a full and happy life once again.

At GroundWork, we provide evidence-based CBT, and understand that Tinnitus distress can be a source of significant emotional distress for many people. While there is no cure for tinnitus, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy can be a game-changer for people struggling with tinnitus sounds. By working with a skilled CBT therapist you can work towards changing your thoughts and feelings surrounding Tinnitus. CBT can significantly reduce the impact of tinnitus on a person’s mental health and quality of life. If you’re suffering from tinnitus distress, consider reaching out to our office to learn more about our CBT services.