WRITING AND PHONOPHOBIA

Loud noise, especially when unexpected, can be unpleasant or jarring for anyone. If you have phonophobia, your fear of loud noise may be overwhelming, causing you to panic and feel extremely anxious. A person with this condition may experience deep distress about a loud noise they know is coming, as well as an unexpected loud noise.

Phonophobia is a specific phobia that causes an extreme, irrational fear of situations or objects that do not warrant that intense a reaction and yet I would never tell someone their fear is irrational. In the moment, that fear feels as real as life itself. People with this condition feel deep stress and anxiety when they anticipate loud noise. They also have extreme reactions to loud noises, once they occur.

Writing with Phonophobia

My home is a safe space because of the environment I have created and the effort by my family to limit noise and triggering sounds in our living space. The desire to stay home in my protected space can prevent me from getting out and I get stir crazy which can lead to stilted writing time.

Noise-cancelling headphones have helped make a difference in my day-to-day life. Whether at home or away, I use them to soften the noises around me, conserving my energy. I still would like to find places where headphones are not needed, but it is difficult to find in a city environment.

Nature is an essential part of my rest and recovery. I can write near the ocean and allow the waves to drown out the noises of the city. Even sitting on my patio, with birds chirping and wind fluttering through tree branches, I can escape the confines of my home. My writing also opens up more in the open-air and not always stuck behind my desk.

How I Cope with Phonophobia

Intentionality - I schedule time to write outside my house twice a month to prevent the feeling of isolation. I also situate myself at places with a wall behind me to prevent unexpected noises from causing me to panic.

Preventing Sensory Overload - Saying ‘no’ when I know that a situation will be too much for my senses (If there are too many people, overly stimulating, or too much noise) even if I have to leave immediately upon arrival.

Finding Places of Refuge - Finding quiet places I can go for inspiration while simultaneously providing recovery. Museums and libraries/bookstores have been quiet and inspiring places. I also visit parks and green spaces as often as I am able.

No Apologies - If I do get overwhelmed or triggered, I cancel my engagements and allow myself to rest. I take a day off and make space for recovery.

Cover Image: Jean François Millet. Woman and Child (Silence), 1855. The Art Institute of Chicago