Some patients obtain relief only during the time the device is worn, while others find that tinnitus is reduced for a period of hours after the device is removed. Only one person in seven achieves any benefit from a masker. Patients who find it difficult to live with their tinnitus may actually be suffering from depression. At the end of this article there is a questionnaire designed to detect signs of depression. Stress and anxiety may increase the distress caused by tinnitus.
Some patients can benefit from biofeedback and stress management training.
Others have found help from books such as Relaxation and Stress Reduction Workbook, by M. Davis. Dental treatment or physical therapy may be helpful. Since it is directly associated with the general nervous system, tinnitus distress is directly related to the psychological state of the individual. Treatment of tinnitus is usually successful in helping people adapt and cope better. A thorough understanding of the problem helps you to gain control over your reactions to the tinnitus.