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How To Survive Flying on an Airplane with Misophonia
Coping

How To Survive Flying on an Airplane with Misophonia

written by Shaylynn H.

My greatest fear with Misophonia used to be airports and flying. It doesn’t help that my anxiety was trying to get involved too. It was telling me that flying was going to be absolutely horrible. Since my stress levels are already crazy when going through the airport (security terrifies me), I was pretty sure that misophonia-wise I would break!

1. In the airport I realized that I don’t HAVE to stay in one spot

So long as you’re close enough to your gate that you hear boarding announcements you don’t have to stay seated. I can’t stand sitting situations because of leg movements – so I just don’t get into them! You can sit in corners, find a quiet restaurant, or if you’re a member of a certain Credit Card or Club you can sometimes get access to exclusive lounges. I’ve even just hid in a corner before…

2. Be prepared for noises

Headphones should always be charged. If you know you’ll be losing internet (such as on the plane) or insane international roaming fees, make sure you have songs downloaded to your phone or a trust old media player (like an iPod). I suggest having a back-up just in case, and have access to your charging cords. Wireless headphones are great (here are some suggestions). Have extra earplugs too. I like to already be wearing them when I get into a situation.

3. On the airplane, try to control where you sit

Many airlines have “preferred seating” where you can pay to choose a special seat which has extra leg-room, etc. Also, sometimes you can pick your seat on the plane for free. Personally, I always need to be by a window to lean against it and not feel trapped. First Class is a great option if you’re able to afford it because it provides a more comfortable environment (and usually has less seats cramped together). Of course, not everybody can afford this, so consider the preferred seating and free seat choices on booking if available.

4. Prepare to zone out

Headphones. Earplugs. A sleeping mask. A nice travel pillow. Depending on the length of your flight, it’s probably easier to take a nap and avoid the worst part of the stress (being trapped in an environment). As a bonus, falling asleep can reset your sensory system. If you’re worried about valuables, consider checking important items in your luggage (however, I’ve never had something stolen on a plane since it’s pretty obvious to steal from the person next to you).

5. Remember that airports/airplanes are STRESSFUL for EVERYONE

You can do this. You can get through it. It’s so worth it to travel, and remember, you’re not the only one who’s stressed! When in doubt, ask a flight attendant or airport staff for help and suggestions. If you explain your sound sensitivity, chances are the staff will do their best to accommodate.

Best of luck flying!

January 13, 2020 0 comment
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Misophonia Etiquette in the Workplace
AwarenessCoping

Misophonia Etiquette in the Workplace

written by Curt Pederson

Work-life on the cube farm can be distracting enough for anyone but especially bothersome for someone trying to cope with misophonia. The noises heard from fellow cube mates run the full gamut that can make even the most focused person lose their concentration.

At a former job, we decided to have a little fun since it seemed a number of people were reluctant to point out that sometimes these noises were distracting and annoying. Borrowing from several different internet sources, we posted a list of Cube/Office Etiquette Rules. The rules were the usual ones that can be distracting and can be trigger noises to a misophonia sufferer:  cell phones on silent/vibrate mode, no calls on a speakerphone, no humming/singing to your music, no nail cutting, chew gum/food quietly, drink beverages without slurping, no pen clicking or continuous paper rattling, etc, and even cautioned against eating smelly foods. We reminded everyone the cube walls are not soundproof and how sound easily carries. Even though they may not be busy at the time, a neighbor could be trying to focus on a task.

We then took it a step further and assigned point values to “infractions” of the rules at the discretion of the individual(s) noting the infraction. Anyone could “penalize” anyone else or even call themselves out for a rules violation—which often happened and for a while posted point totals on a whiteboard. The goal was to keep it light and get to a point where we could let a co-worker know the noise(s) they were/were making made a co-worker lose focus or found annoying without being too direct. Some may see it as the “chicken’s way out,” but it worked in our office to make everyone more aware of the noises being made and the impact on co-workers. It also raised our comfort level to point out bothersome noises. Even those with an office had an increased awareness and tried to be more mindful when they visited the cube farm. We had fun with it, no one stormed out, there was no punishment for accumulating a certain number of points or anything of that nature. We felt it was a kinder way to let a cube mate know the noise they were making was distracting/annoying. Several times a person knew they were the guilty party before anyone else said anything. Their “revenge” towards me came on my last day there when several approached my cube with empty cups and spoons inside clanking the spoons in the cups.

December 6, 2019 3 comments
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Best Christmas Gift Ideas for Misophonia
CopingRelationships

Best Christmas Gift Ideas for Misophonia

written by Vicki Sladowski

It is that time of year again, it honestly feels like we just rang in the new year. As a wife and mother, I spend my energies trying to figure out the perfect gift for everyone. In all honesty, I am told by many friends and family that they never know what to buy for me and I am sure you also have the hard to shop for people in your life.

If you have a loved one who suffers from Misophonia, there are so many great gift ideas that they will greatly appreciate. Let me begin with the obvious, Noise Canceling Headphones/ Earbuds which can be life-changing.

Noise–cancelling reduces unwanted ambient sounds using active noise control. Noise-canceling headphones are probably one of the top coping tools for a Misophonia sufferer. It is also an item that many people do not normally purchase for themselves. They can be very spendy, but can you put a price on your sanity or well being? Before you go into cardiac arrest when you see the price tags, please keep a few things in mind. First of all, as I said this is an investment in their well- being, can you really put a price on that? Secondly, noise-canceling headphones range in price and brands so you will be able to find a pair that fit your budget.

A solid piece of advice to offer is that you get what you pay for, so keeping that in mind, a $20 pair of headphones will probably not provide the relief that is needed and chances are they may not last that long. It is just my opinion but I think it is better to buy a quality item so you are not replacing them. In the long run, you will end up spending more replacing them when they break than to spend it all at once. I would also suggest purchasing the extended warranty offered since this is an item that will be used very frequently. 

I highly recommend that you purchase these from Amazon or at least check the store return policy. One feature that I really like about Amazon is when you look at the review section you can click on certain words. There is a section that says, “Read Reviews that mention”; aside from the standard topics consumers are reviewing them based on noise-canceling, sound sensitivity, SPD and Autism. Do your research! Reading reviews can really help you when making your purchasing decision.

The products below are priced from Amazon but feel free to search them on other websites to find a lower price. You can also find some of them on QVC or HSN which will typically offer easy payment options so you do not have to pay the full price at one time.

Bose QuietComfort 35 II Wireless Bluetooth Headphones, Noise-Cancelling are amazing. 9.9/10 rating with over 2900 reviews. These are available with a few color choices, 

 

Sony Noise Cancelling Headphones WH1000XM3: Wireless Bluetooth Over the Ear Headphones are listed in 2nd place with 9.6 ratings out of 1300 reviews

 

Sennheiser PXC 550 Wireless – NoiseGard Adaptive Noise Cancelling, Bluetooth Headphone with Touch Sensitive Control and 30-Hour Battery Life is another quality brand

With an 8.9/10 out of 1100 reviews

If you are looking for more of an earbud, Bose has you covered.

Bose QuietComfort 20 Acoustic Noise Cancelling Headphones

 

There are less expensive options available in case you need to purchase them for a child or teenager and you may have concerns about care and loss. Who can blame you there? Just make sure they are compatible with their device and look for the noise-canceling feature as well as battery life. 

What are some other items that you can give without breaking the bank?

Earplugs

Earplugs make a great stocking stuffer. Every Misophone should always keep at least a pair on them al all times. You never know when you may put in a trigger situation. Of course, we all have them, but this is one item that you can never have too many, we drop them or lose them very often, at least I do. You can make a little gift bag with them and throw in a package of alcohol wipes and maybe a keychain with an earplug holder so your Misophone will have them handy when they need to grab them quickly. Believe me, there is nothing worse than being triggered and digging through your purse frantically looking for a pair. I love Moldex sparkplugs. Pairs of 35db earplugs are individually packed in fun colors. They are very comfortable and lightweight. The individual packing is great to leave in your car or purse. You can also buy them in larger quantities (yes they do sell them in bulk!). 

Weighted Blankets

Weighted blankets are all the rage right now for a reason. When you’re stressed, it’s really hard to get a good night sleep. There’s actually science behind why they can help (proprioceptive pressure is excellent for calming/regulating). Also, it’s winter, so these blankets are sure to keep your loved one warm.

A Sound Machine

Sound machines are a device that can play sounds such as white, pink, brown noise or even ambient sounds like nature sounds that can help block out or lessen the severity of triggers. Again these range in price but you can find them almost everywhere. Bed Bath and Beyond has a wide selection and offers coupons.

 

Gradual Alarm Clocks, instead of being jarred awake but the sudden blaring beep, this clock will not jolt you out of restless sleep.

 

Spa Certificates are always a good idea.

Some treatments are geared toward sensory relaxation such as a Himalayan Salt Cave, an AquaFloat, which is an hour-long sensory deprivation pool or tank. Why not give the gift of relaxation? You can usually find amazing deals on the Groupon app, although many facilities may offer online holiday specials, check their website.  

 

Relaxation Putty or Fidgets make great stocking stuffers. 

 

Super Soft Blanket to cozy up in snuggly warmth.

A Gift of Silence is always appreciated.

Give your Misophone some coupons for ME TIME, take the kids and give them a break, time that they need to spend doing something relaxing for themselves! Be creative, maybe give the gift of some candles and bubble bath to go with it.
No matter what kind of budget you have, there is a wide choice of Misophonia friendly gifts that will be sure to please. Merry Misophonia!

Looking for more ideas? Check out our product reviews by other Misophonia sufferers! 

 

December 4, 2019 1 comment
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Life’s Curve Balls and Challenges
CopingHealthMental HealthPersonal StoriesPhotographyRelationships

Life’s Curve Balls and Challenges

written by Sharon

What you’ll be reading is an account from one day, and an account from another day. Kind of like journal entries. I had started the first “entry” as a post for the site, but then I gave up after awhile. The second entry is sort of a continuation of that, but more of a plan of action. Misophonia, anxiety, and depression are discussed.

August 2019

Nothing makes my misophonia flare up more than stress and anxiety. Recently, life has pitched some curve balls, and while I’ve successfully dealt with some of them, there are other curve balls still hurtling in my direction that I’m in the process of figuring out. Some of these curve balls aren’t bad! It’s the idea of starting something out of my comfort zone that makes me uneasy.

I’m a freelance photographer. Recently, I was contacted by a woman asking me to shoot some wedding portraits, and then her ceremony afterwards. This is an amazing opportunity for me. We made plans, and now we just have to work out the details. I love photography, but this is the first time I’m shooting a wedding. That’s the curve ball. I am beyond nervous, but I hope to deliver quality photos.

I am also scheduled to have a vendor booth at an antique store showcasing my photography and taking some pictures with a backdrop for dirt cheap. Really nice lady, cute shop, but $100 a month for rent. Curve ball number two. I simply don’t make enough to cover that, plus groceries, plus bills, plus other expenses that may pop up. And I’m not sure I’ll get enough people to make $100 for another month of rent. Unless something miraculous happens, I’m only going to be there for a month to get as much exposure I can from it, and then say my goodbyes.

Additionally, some other personal life stuff is happening. I won’t get into it here. It’s one of the major curve balls I’ve been thrown. It’s something outside my comfort zone and will result in some serious growth, and hopefully a good future. This is good stuff I’m stressing over. I’m excited and nervous, and I look forward to what happens next.

Another curve ball is getting my driver’s license. At the age of 24, a lot of people might think I’m getting it late. It sure feels that way, since most of my friends got their license when they were much younger. I have been slowly overcoming my driving anxiety. It has gotten a lot better, but I’m not completely over it. I’m still stressing about going in for the behind the wheel test because last time I failed all three times, and I had my permit taken from me. So I started all over this year after about a two year hiatus. I’m determined to get my license so I can have a some more independence.

All of these things combined can, on some days, make my misophonia worse. A lot is happening in my life right now (in my opinion) and some days, I just break down and cry. I overthink about what people will think of me, especially my family; I doubt myself too much; I put myself down and almost convince myself that no one cares.

November 2, 2019

The wedding went well! The family liked their photos and I made a decent amount with them. I also learned that I need to fix a few things when it comes to photographing weddings. I won’t get into the details here, but it was a good learning experience. I am looking forward to implementing what I’ve learned,

The antique shop thing fell through. But hey, I think it was worth a shot. I was there for a month, got a few people, and then packed up. While I was there, my misophonia always acted up. There was always at least one person that triggered me and I had to wear wireless earbuds playing rain sounds to drown them out.

I’m planning a long visit to see my boyfriend as he recently moved and I haven’t seen him in awhile. I’m looking forward to it.

And yet, I am stressed.

I am anxious.

I am depressed.

I am/get angry.

I am frustrated.

I am afraid.

I can’t focus.

I have lost interest in a lot of things.

Falling asleep can be very difficult and getting up out of bed is a chore in and of itself.

Nothing feels right.

None of it is his fault. I just think I’m getting worse. I cycle through so many emotions throughout the day. I am hardly ever calm. When I am it’s only short moments.  I can’t enjoy anything without stressing about my misophonia, depression, or anxiety. I just want certain things to happen in my life already and I’m sure that’s part of why I feel the way I do. I can’t talk about the other parts. I’ll save that for therapy.

Yeah. After I visit my boyfriend, I will be seeking therapy and medication. Perhaps I will document it here or on Misophonia Weekly.

It’s something I should have done a long time ago, but I didn’t. Because I am stubborn, and anxiety holds me back from making that phone call to schedule the initial appointment, and I start thinking about all the things that could go wrong.

But then I think about my boyfriend. I don’t want to be a mess and make life harder for both of us. I want to be productive and useful and contribute to our lives. I want to marry the boy whose grown into a wonderful man, whom I had a crush on since I first met him, and I can’t be the best future wife I can be if I don’t take action.

I know, it’s cheesy. But if it’s for him, I want to try.

Thanks for reading.

November 3, 2019 0 comment
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What is Misophonia Education?
Coping

What is Misophonia Education?

written by Shaylynn H.

www.MisophoniaEducation.com is the newly launched workshop and education website by Dr. Jennifer Jo Brout PsyD. These workshops will provide an overview of misophonia, the history of the disorder, as well as current research and coping tips on a variety of misophonia related topics. Misophonia Education was launched to help clinicians, teachers, parents, and misophonia sufferers learn about the disorder from an accurate source.

Dr. Brout is the head of the International Misophonia Research Network as well as co-founder of the Duke Misophonia and Emotion program. Dr. Brout will be featuring special guests such as renowned researchers for these events, to ensure that misophonia education is covered on a variety of topics and disciplines. Providers who attend the workshops will be eligible to be listed on www.misophoniaproviders.com a list that aims to connect cross-disciplinary providers with sufferers.

Lean more here.

September 10, 2019 0 comment
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