Situationally influenced tinnitus coping strategies: a mixed methods approach

Abstract

The main problematic tinnitus situations for this cohort were identified. Both active and passive coping styles were applied to approach these situations. The coping strategies used most frequently and utilised in the widest range of problematic situations were using sound enrichment and diverting attention. Implications for Rehabilitation The main problematic tinnitus situations for this group of participants were identified. Overall, a limited range of strategies were used to deal with individual problematic situations. The use of sound enrichment and diverting attention was applied in the widest range of problematic situations. The use of both active and passive coping styles was evident to approach these situations. The use of passive strategies in certain situations was associated with higher levels of tinnitus distress, depression, and anxiety over the last week as measured by self-reported questionnaires.