Support is available if you’re living with tinnitus

09 May 2017

Following the inquest into the death of Inspiral Carpets drummer Craig Gill, BSHAA has urged anyone living with tinnitus to get help and support.

Sarah Vokes, BSHAA President, said: “One in 10 people in the UK are thought to be living with some form of tinnitus and we wholeheartedly support the British Tinnitus Association’s efforts to drive research and raise awareness. There is lots of information and support available for people living with the condition, and I would also encourage everyone to take steps to look after and protect their hearing.”

• There is lots of advice and information about tinnitus on the BTA website
• The BTA (British Tinnitus Association) has a helpline number which is available 9am to 5pm on weekdays. Call 0800 0180527.
• Many BSHAA members are highly experienced in tinnitus treatment and support – find an audiologist
• Find out how to protect your hearing

Craig’s wife Gill said in a statement at the inquest last week: “For the past 20 years, Craig suffered from debilitating tinnitus, a condition caused by not protecting his hearing when enjoying the careers he loved the most – a successful musician, DJ and love of listening to music. His condition affected his day-to-day wellbeing and he suffered in silence with both sleep deprivation and anxiety.”

“Although we struggle with the day-to-day existence of life without Craig, we are now able to discuss and promote awareness of tinnitus and men’s mental health. It takes courage for men to speak out, to talk to one another, to share their thoughts and their fears. If you are one of those men, like Craig, we urge you to reach out to those you love and find comfort in sharing your pain.”

The British Tinnitus Association wrote in a blog on the TTA website: “Tinnitus is a common condition, and the vast majority of people with tinnitus find ways to manage it effectively. However, there are a very small number of cases every year where tinnitus leads to, or is a factor in, suicide and every one of these is a tragedy.

“We know it is vital that high quality tinnitus services are available so such tragic cases can be prevented wherever possible. In the longer term, we want a cure for tinnitus, and are driving research and demanding progress in this search to fulfil our vision of a world where no one suffers from tinnitus.”

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