Misophonia

1) What it is

Misophonia is a strong emotional and physical reaction to specific sounds (chewing, tapping, breathing). It can cause anger, disgust, panic, and avoidance. It’s not “being dramatic” — it’s a real nervous system response.

2) What it feels like

“That sound makes me rage instantly.”

“I feel trapped and panicky.”

“I can’t concentrate or stay calm.”

3) Signs

• intense anger/anxiety to certain sounds
• avoidance (meals, family settings)
• nervous system stress response
• guilt and shame after reactions
• relationship conflict

4) Causes

Not fully understood; may involve sensory sensitivity, anxiety, OCD traits, autism/ADHD overlap in some people.

5) Triggers

• chewing, sniffing, tapping, repetitive noises
• being trapped (can’t escape)
• fatigue and stress

6) Helps now

• noise-cancelling headphones
• white noise
• step away calmly
• breathing + grounding
• communicate boundaries kindly

7) Longer-term

• exposure-style strategies carefully
• CBT for reaction management
• sensory regulation routines
• reduce shame and isolation

8) Treatment

• therapist support (CBT/sensory approaches)
• occupational therapy support
• anxiety treatment if present

9) Medication

Not specific, but anxiety meds may help if anxiety is high.

10) Tips

• plan seating arrangements
• use earplugs in triggering environments
• create “escape breaks” without guilt

11) Urgent

Urgent if:

• rage leads to unsafe behaviour
• severe avoidance stops daily life

12) UK help

• NHS mental health routes
• Mind
• Samaritans / Shout

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