Unbearable noises: why do certain sounds affect us?
Why do some noises become unbearable?
Some sounds we barely notice.
And then there are others that immediately seem to grab all our attention.
Someone chewing next to you.
A pen clicking.
Someone sniffling.
A keyboard typing non-stop.
You know the sound is ordinary, but your reaction is much stronger than expected.
Why?
We are not all sensitive to the same sounds
Sound perception is individual.
What doesn't bother one person at all can become very difficult for another to tolerate.
This difference is perfectly significant when talking about sound sensitivity.
Why are repetitive sounds so peculiar?
Repetition can keep your attention on a sound.
Take an isolated click.
You hear it, then you move on.
Now imagine that same click every five seconds for an hour.
The context changes completely.
Can certain sounds trigger an emotional reaction?
Yes, some people can experience a very strong emotional reaction to certain sounds.
The term misophonia is sometimes used to describe this type of reaction to specific sounds.
But it's important not to self-diagnose just because a noise annoys you.
Sound sensitivity exists on a very broad spectrum.
What to do when you can't eliminate the noise?
This is often where the situation gets complicated.
You can't ask a colleague to stop typing.
You can't stop a neighbor from walking around.
You can't control the noises in a cafe.
However, you can act on your own environment.
Try to:
- move away from the source;
- change rooms;
- use background noise;
- take a break;
- reduce certain sounds with earplugs.
Akin Acoustic: a solution for when you need a sound break
Akin Acoustic does not claim to eliminate all sound sources.
The idea is different.
To give you the ability to reduce certain distractions when your environment becomes too intrusive.
Discreet and easy to carry, the earplugs can accompany you to work, while studying, on public transport, during your reading time, or simply when you want to retreat into your own bubble.
👉 Create my quiet bubble with Akin Acoustic:
https://akinacoustic.com/
When should you seek advice?
If your sound sensitivity becomes very significant, causes significant distress, or disrupts your work, relationships, or daily life, it may be beneficial to discuss it with a healthcare professional.
Earplugs can be a comfort tool, but they do not replace professional care when it is needed.