The positive side of living with tinnitus: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Objective The aim of the current study was to examine the presence of positive experiences reported by individuals with tinnitus in the United States. Design The study used a cross-sectional survey design. The data were analysed using qualitative (content analysis) and quantitative (t-test or Chi-square test) analyses. Study Sample Study participants were individuals participating in clinical trials involving Internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy (ICBT) for tinnitus. A total of 439 respondents, 211 (48.1%) male and 228 (51.9%) female responded, and data were collected via an online questionnaire. Results Of the 439 participants, 164 (i.e. 37.4%) reported at least one positive experience. Younger participants and those with lower hearing disability were more likely to report positive experiences. The responses were categorised into six categories: Outlook (n = 139), Personal development (n = 42), Treatment-related (n = 42), Coping (n = 29), Support (n = 19), and Disease-specific (n = 19). Conclusions The ability of individuals with chronic tinnitus to identify positive experiences may give insights regarding acceptance and coping with tinnitus as well as the temperament of individuals reporting positive experiences. Considering these variables may help when planning individualised rehabilitation programs.