You are currently viewing Help for Misophonia

Help for Misophonia

Help for Misophonia - taming the triggers

You probably already know what Misophonia is if you are reading this article, but just to be clear here is a short description…

Misophonia AKA selective sound sensitivity syndrome is a disorder in which certain sounds trigger emotional or physiological responses.   For most of the population those everyday sounds are just part of life.  For the Misophonia sufferer however, they can result in extreme emotional reactions including anger, rage, disgust, panic and some will feel like physically attacking the person making the sound. 

Typically, though not always, the sounds are soft sounds, i.e. chewing, swallowing, breathing sounds, keyboard tapping. 

Misophonia is not just about audio triggers

Misophonia literally translates as “hatred of sound” however since it was first identifed we have come to understand that the same emotional responses can also be triggered by visual triggers or cues. Some will be triggered by seeing someone talk when eating, or foot tapping, hair twirling etc.

Some who suffer from Misophonia can also be triggered by touch e.g. the feel of certain textures, or a partners clothes against the skin.

Cause of Misophonia

Currently (2022) there is no known cause of Misophonia and no recognised medical diagnostic criteria.  Many GP’s and medical consultants are not yet aware of Misophonia.  Getting help via the medical system in many countries is also difficult.

Self help for Misophonia

Many Misophonia sufferers cope by avoidance methods.  These include avoiding places where they may hear a trigger noise, such as restaurants, pubs, public transport.  Many will also wear noise cancelling headphones.

Therapy for Misophonia

There are some therapies that can help with Misophonia.  CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) can help sufferers cope with everyday situations.  Any activitiy that can help an individual relax is also useful to reduce anxiety and stress both of which contribute to the distress of Misophonia.  Some examples are Self-hypnosis, Hypnotherapy, Progressive MuscleRelaxation (PMR) and Mindfulness.

Sequent Repatterning Therapy (SRT)

Sequent Repatterning Therapy (SRT) was created specifically to treat people with misophonia.  Developed in the United Kingdom by Chris Pearson and implemented in 2014 the therapy has now become more widely available. 

I am pleased to be able to offer this effective therapy as a professionally qualified SRT therapist. I work with misophonia clients both in UK and internationally, via a secure Medical Video conferencing platform.

You may find more information about SRT and help for Misophonia on my Misophonia focussed website.

Leave a Reply