It’s not uncommon to find yourself frustrated with people talking too loud. Loud talkers may not mean to annoy you, but their actions can make you feel that way. To avoid overreacting, try to establish a quiet zone. There are several ways to prevent or minimize the effects of loud talking.
Misophonia
If someone is talking loudly at work, you might be suffering from misophonia, a disorder in which certain sounds irritate the person. These sounds, often associated with normal conversation, can cause physical and emotional responses in sufferers. Although there is no known cause for misophonia, it is best to avoid situations where loud noises are likely to occur.
Treatments can include protective equipment and quiet-zones. However, these are not recommended as the sole treatment strategy for misophonia. Misophonia sufferers can also benefit from cognitive behavioral techniques to help them learn to deal with discomfort and build new coping skills. In fact, people suffering from this condition are encouraged to share their experiences with others and seek support and resources.
People with misophonia often have other comorbid conditions such as depression, anxiety, or insomnia. While there is no cure for misophonia, many sufferers find coping strategies and a way to overcome the disorder.
Symptoms
For those suffering from misophonia, loud talking may trigger intense emotions, including fear and irritation. Often, these reactions are out of proportion to the triggering sound. In some cases, a person may even become violent or irrational. To make matters worse, they may act out in a way that is embarrassing to them and others.
Symptoms of hyperacusis can be very painful and can occur in spells, with some people experiencing painful episodes for days or even weeks. These episodes are often accompanied by headaches and can affect the person’s quality of life. The pain is usually described as a dull, throbbing, or sharp stab.
Prevention
There are a few techniques you can use to prevent others from annoying you with their loud talking. First, try to stay calm and detached in social situations and meetings. Also, it can help to set boundaries with such people. Try to focus on something else, like your work, to stay calm. Then, try to put the other person on the back burner.
