The Impact of Tinnitus on Mental Health

Bashar Ali  Naji; Asad Hameed  Alnaja

doi:10.18502/jmr.v19i4.19767

Bashar Ali Naji Department of Audiology, School of Rehabilitation, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Teheran, Iran.
Asad Hameed Alnaja Department of Biology, College of Sciences, Mustansiriyah University, Baghdad, Iraq.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/jmr.v19i4.19767

Keywords: Tinnitus; Anxiety; Depression; Mental health

Abstract

Introduction: Tinnitus—the perception of sound in the absence of an external stimulus— affects approximately 14.4% of adults worldwide and significantly impacts mental health. It is frequently associated with anxiety, depression, and cognitive dysfunction, leading to a reduced quality of life (QoL). Tinnitus may be classified as subjective or objective, with severity and related psychological distress varying considerably among individuals.

Materials and Methods: A comprehensive review of literature published between 2010 and 2024 was conducted using databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Keywords related to tinnitus and mental health (e.g. anxiety, depression, mood disorders) were used to identify human studies examining the psychological impact of tinnitus.

Results: Research consistently indicates that individuals with tinnitus experience varying prevalence rates of anxiety and depression, ranging from 18.5% to 48.33% for anxiety and from 6% to 84% for depression. Shared neural circuits—including the anterior cingulate cortex, insula, and amygdala—are implicated in both tinnitus and mental health conditions. Psychological interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness- based interventions (MBIs) have demonstrated effectiveness in alleviating tinnitus-related distress and enhancing mental well-being.

Conclusion: Tinnitus significantly affects mental health, contributing to anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances. A multidisciplinary treatment approach that addresses both auditory and psychological dimensions of tinnitus is essential for effective management. Further research is warranted to refine therapeutic strategies and better understand the complex relationship between tinnitus and mental health.