Hope for the future: In conversation with Tash Austin, Research Volunteer

When you meet Tash Austin, one of Tinnitus UK’s newest research volunteers, her enthusiasm for psychology, health, and making a difference is clear.

Fresh from completing her psychology degree at the University of Sheffield, she’s throwing her energy into helping Tinnitus UK map the current research landscape and highlight opportunities for change.

 Danny:

Tash, could you start by telling us a little about your background and what brought you to Tinnitus UK?

Tash:

Of course. I’ve just finished my psychology degree at Sheffield. I loved the course – it covered everything from neuroscience and child psychology to social psychology. I didn’t specialise in anything, though my dissertation focused on drug use among university students.

What really drew me into tinnitus was the social psychology side. I’ve always been fascinated by how society, government, and legislation affect health outcomes. When I learned how little standardised diagnosis or support exists for tinnitus, despite how widespread it is, I found that shocking. That made me want to get involved.

 Danny:

And how did you first hear about us?

Tash:

Through a careers talk at uni. Emily from Tinnitus UK came to speak about volunteering. She explained how devastating tinnitus can be for people, sometimes destroying their quality of life when it first develops. Hearing about the lack of resources and how hard it can be just to get a diagnosis really struck me. The chance to contribute to research and raise awareness felt like something I had to do.

 Danny:

You’ve been delving into current research – what has stood out most to you?

Tash:

Several things, really. One is the integration of CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy). It sounds simple – recognising and breaking negative thought patterns – but it can make a huge difference. What excites me is the way CBT-informed therapy is now being delivered digitally, even with AI-driven tools, giving people instant access to support from their phones.

I’ve also been fascinated by brain stimulation techniques. Some researchers are trialling stimulation of the vagus nerve to reduce the phantom noises of tinnitus. It sounds like science fiction, but it’s real and, for some, effective. Of course, more consistent results are needed, but it shows the innovation happening in the field.

Danny:

Do you feel your psychology background gives you a different perspective on these approaches?

Tash:

Maybe. I’ll admit I sometimes feel out of my depth when it comes to neuroscience or neuroimaging! Psychology is more about interpretation—it acknowledges how varied people’s experiences are. With tinnitus, that’s key. Some people respond to CBT, others don’t; distress levels vary hugely. Neuroscience can show what’s happening in the brain, but psychology helps us understand the “why” and the human side—like the links with anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. Both perspectives are needed.

Danny:

Why do you think tinnitus remains so misunderstood by the public?

Tash:

I think it comes down to lack of education. Before volunteering, I barely knew what tinnitus was – I thought it was just a loud noise. Even many of my course mates had never heard of it. Among older people, there’s also that “just get on with it” mentality. My mum casually mentioned she has tinnitus when I told her about this role! She manages, but she’d never looked for support.

Compare that to how awareness around anxiety and depression has grown in recent years. The more people know and talk about a condition, the more accepted and supported it becomes. Tinnitus hasn’t reached that point yet.

Danny:

And as a young person, what’s your experience of hearing protection at clubs and events?

Tash:

Honestly, I’d never seen it until after I started volunteering here. About a month later, I went to a rave where they were handing out earplugs for the first time. That coincidence really hit me. Since then, I’ve been more cautious, using ear protection and trying not to stay too long near loud speakers. It’s definitely changed how I think about going out.

Danny:

From your perspective, why is research and communicating research so important?

Tash:

Because there’s still so much we don’t know. What triggers tinnitus in some people but not others? Why does it appear at different ages? And, of course, there’s no cure yet. Research helps us get closer to those answers.

But equally important is communication. Knowing what’s happening and what support exists reassures people. I think of it like when a doctor tells you an illness will pass – it eases your distress even before treatment takes effect. With tinnitus, hearing from others who’ve lived with it for decades and built fulfilling lives makes a huge difference psychologically. That’s why sharing research and personal stories is vital.

Danny:

Finally, what change would you most like to see in the future?

Tash:

I’d love tinnitus to be integrated into more university courses – psychology, audiology, medicine – so the next generation of professionals is more aware. I’d also like to see standardised protocols for diagnosis across the NHS, so people aren’t left feeling lost.

As for me, I’d like to carry on working in research or even in government policy one day. Whatever I do, I want to help shape better awareness, resources, and outcomes for people with conditions like tinnitus.

Danny:

That’s a fantastic goal to end on. Thank you, Tash, for your time and for everything you’re doing to help us build a better future for people with tinnitus. Best of luck with the next stage of your career, and we’ll look out for you in Government policy teams!