Expert Explained: What is Misophonia

Early research suggests that up to 20% of adults may live with the condition, which can range from mild to severe.

What is misophonia

The word "misophonia" is translated from Greek as "aversion to sounds."

The term describes the phenomenon of a person having a strong emotional reaction to certain sounds that everyone else considers normal, that is, sounds that have no effect on the majority.

How does misophonia appear

Misophonia can be formed under the influence of post-traumatic factors.

An unpleasant event in a person’s life became emotionally associated with a certain sound, which is why it subsequently began to cause unpleasant sensations. Misophonia can be genetic.

How to tell if you have Misophonia

Misophonia sufferers cannot tolerate certain sounds that typically accompany mouth movements—chewing, including gum, swallowing, slurping, smacking, coughing, and some hissing sounds.

What to do if you have Misophonia

For misophonia, the main treatment method is psychotherapy.

At the first stage, they find out the reason why certain sounds cause such a heightened emotional reaction.

Next, this cause is affected through cognitive behavioral therapy in combination with sound therapy.

• Related news:
• stress
• trauma
• mental health
• 18 September 2023

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