A new group to support local people with tinnitus is being formed in Newcastle. Tinnitus affects one in ten adults in the UK. More than 260, 000 adults in the North East experience tinnitus, and for 10% of them – that’s more than 26,000 people – it will have a serious impact on their quality of life
The first meeting will take place on 24 May 2018, 13.00 – 14.30 at Deaflink North East, 11 Tankerville Place, Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 3AT.
The group is being organised by Louise Borrell, Deaflink Hard of Hearing Involvement Worker who says “Tinnitus can be life changing but accessing a support group helps you to realise that you’re not on your own and that there are many really successful strategies out there.”
Colette Bunker, BTA Volunteer and Support Group Manager comments: “Being among people who have tinnitus, listening to their experiences and how they have managed to handle things, is a tremendous help for the individual. I witness this first hand when attending group meetings. It is amazing seeing the difference it makes to people, especially those who have recently been diagnosed.”
Tinnitus is defined as the experience of sounds with no external source, most commonly ringing or buzzing, but sometimes experienced as whooshing, clicking or even music. Many people aren’t troubled by sounds they hear, but for around 10%, the condition has a significant impact on their quality of life, often linked to stress, anxiety or sometimes depression.
Colette adds: “Tinnitus can be an isolating condition, with friends and family struggling to understand how it feels to adapt to the presence of loud or persistent noises. Some people choose to bring a partner or family member to the meetings, which can often help both parties understand more about the condition and the experiences or behaviours it can bring.”
If you would like to find out more, please contact Louise Borrell on 0191 281 2314 or louise@deaflink.org.uk to register your interest.