“Talk to loved ones, explain how difficult it is”: Louise’s Story

I experienced sudden onset tinnitus 16 years ago.

At the time I was a gigging singer and songwriter and had been for many years. Following a visit to my GP I was referred to ENT where, after a hearing test, I was diagnosed with congenital sensorineural hearing loss, tinnitus, and at that time, hyperacusis. I was fitted with two hearing aids.

From that point on my life changed.

I became extremely stressed, anxious and noise sensitive. I stepped away from music as I found it all too much to cope with.

A period of low mood and depression followed. My relationships with close loved ones and co-workers were affected. A very distressing time for others as well as myself as I struggled to come to terms with my diagnosis.

The hardest part for me before seeking support was the loss of my music life, as those around me continued their creative paths I became increasingly isolated. I was grieving the life I’d once known. A hearing loss is very much a loss.

Tinnitus UK have been instrumental in my recovery.

I joined them as a member many years ago (back then they were known as British Tinnitus association). I became involved in fundraising, awareness raising and later running my own tinnitus support group with my audiologist and friend Adam Chell.

Attending my first support group was enlightening.

Like minded understanding and support is crucial. It helped me immensely in the early stages. Support spaces are vital, whether online or in person. They bring comfort to all of us with tinnitus, being with people who ‘get it’ is very empowering. If support groups didn’t exist, I feel people would be far more isolated. We all need connection and shared communication as we live our lives with tinnitus.

I returned to music in 2023. A friend invited me to his studio where he was recording an album. I went along as a nervous listener and ended up singing harmony vocals! My first foray into singing for many years, I felt overjoyed that once again I could participate in my first love, music. For the next two years I honed my vocal skills again and learnt ways of managing sound effectively whilst using hearing devices. Culminating in the release of my solo album ‘Love Is the Bridge’ in September 2025. At the album launch, myself and my amazing band of musicians and singers created a soundscape that stayed at no more than 85 decibels. The sound was measured on the night by my audiologist. You can make music, create a vibe and do so safely in my experience.

Music is back in my life with lots of projects planned. And as ever I take things seriously with regards to my hearing and tinnitus. Being ok to speak up and advocate for yourself is essential. I have had many chats with sound engineers and musicians over the past two years; I find people are very accommodating once they understand the nuances of hearing loss and tinnitus. Tinnitus is part of my life now, and I accept that I may need to do things differently to others and adjust sounds and spaces on stage and in studios accordingly.

Tinnitus is my constant companion and I respect it.

It gives me a clear message if I have overdone things. My barometer for life I call it! I am constantly aware of the delicate balance of music and caring for my hearing. I’m learning all the time.

For those recently diagnosed and struggling with the early stages I would suggest connecting into quality support, talk to loved ones, explain how difficult it is to live without peace and quiet at times. Be kind to yourself. Self-care is vital. Build on your internal calm bank, lifestyle changes may assist. Take action to inform yourself.

And on the toughest days look to people who have walked the path before you, there is hope, there is help and, in time, new paths will emerge.