Coping and support

In addition to any treatment options offered by your doctor, here are some suggestions to help you cope with tinnitus:

• Support groups. Sharing your experience with others who have tinnitus may be helpful. There are tinnitus groups that meet in person, as well as internet forums. To ensure that the information you get in the group is accurate, it's best to choose a group facilitated by a physician, audiologist or other qualified health professional.
• Education. Learning as much as you can about tinnitus and ways to alleviate symptoms can help. And just understanding tinnitus better makes it less bothersome for some people.
• Stress management. Stress can make tinnitus worse. Stress management, whether through relaxation therapy, biofeedback or exercise, may provide some relief.