Misophonia: When Everyday Sounds Trigger Anger and Distress

Aversion or rage towards sounds?

Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask you, if hearing certain sounds causes feelings of disgust or rage, does that indicate a personal emotional issue? I am very sensitive to noise and prefer quiet environments, whether in personal or public spaces.
Sounds like barking dogs, noisy children, screaming, slamming doors from neighbors, or even the sound of someone flossing in the break room, as well as loud conversations on the train, can irritate or infuriate me.
I work shifts, and during night shifts, I always close the windows and wear earplugs to sleep in the morning.
Even when I switch to day shifts, I continue to wear earplugs at night because sometimes even faint sounds make it hard for me to fall asleep.
Unless I am extremely tired, I prefer to wear headphones and listen to music to avoid those annoying noises.
My family says I am too particular, and I know that it is impossible to find a completely silent place.
I have tried researching online, and some sources mention phonophobia (selective sound sensitivity syndrome), while others say that such individuals are simply very sensitive to sound (I personally feel that I can hear even faint or distant noises).
I would like to ask the doctor if phonophobia is a real condition.
Additionally, should I consider seeing a psychiatrist for my situation?

Hua, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/06/18

Dr. Wang Zhenbang reply Psychiatry

Hello, based on the situation you described, it seems to be causing you some distress in your life.
Regardless of whether it is phonophobia, you may want to ask yourself if you have any coping strategies for these situations.
If you cannot find suitable ways to manage it, or if these issues are indeed affecting your life and interpersonal relationships, I recommend seeking further evaluation and subsequent management at a hospital.
Wishing you health and peace, Dr.
Wang Zhenbang.

Reply Date: 2019/06/18

More Info

Misophonia is a condition characterized by strong emotional reactions, such as anger or disgust, triggered by specific sounds. These sounds can range from everyday noises like chewing, breathing, or tapping to more disruptive sounds like loud conversations or barking dogs. Your experience of feeling irritated or enraged by certain noises is indeed indicative of misophonia, which is not merely a personality quirk but a recognized condition that can significantly impact one’s quality of life.

The emotional responses associated with misophonia can be intense and may lead to avoidance behaviors, such as isolating oneself in quiet environments or using earplugs or headphones to block out unwanted sounds. It’s important to understand that these reactions are not simply a matter of being overly sensitive or having a bad attitude; they stem from a neurological response to sound that can be distressing and overwhelming.
Research suggests that misophonia may be linked to the brain's auditory processing systems and how they interact with emotional centers. For individuals with misophonia, certain sounds may trigger a fight-or-flight response, leading to feelings of anger or anxiety. This is why you might find yourself feeling increasingly agitated in environments where noise is prevalent, even if the sounds are not particularly loud or disruptive to others.

Your situation, where you find it difficult to sleep due to minor noises and feel the need to wear earplugs or headphones, is a common experience among those with misophonia. It can also lead to social withdrawal, as you may avoid situations where you anticipate encountering triggering sounds. This can further exacerbate feelings of isolation and distress.

As for whether you should see a mental health professional, it can be beneficial to consult with a psychiatrist or psychologist who specializes in auditory processing disorders or anxiety-related conditions. They can help assess the severity of your symptoms and provide coping strategies or therapeutic interventions. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has been shown to be effective for some individuals with misophonia, as it can help reframe negative thought patterns associated with sound triggers and develop healthier responses.

Additionally, sound therapy or desensitization techniques may also be explored. These approaches involve gradually exposing oneself to the triggering sounds in a controlled manner while employing relaxation techniques to reduce the emotional response. This can help in building tolerance to the sounds over time.

It’s also worth noting that misophonia can coexist with other conditions, such as anxiety disorders or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Therefore, a comprehensive evaluation by a mental health professional can help identify any underlying issues that may be contributing to your sensitivity to sound.

In summary, misophonia is a legitimate condition that can cause significant distress and impact daily functioning. If your symptoms are affecting your quality of life, seeking professional help is a proactive step toward understanding and managing your reactions to sound. Remember, you are not alone in this experience, and there are effective strategies and treatments available to help you cope with misophonia.

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