[The relationship between tinnitus, personality, and depression]

Abstract

Objective: This study examines the relationship between personality characteristics, depression symptoms, demographic profile, and the amount of the tinnitus-related distress experienced.

Method: 121 patients suffering from tinnitus were examined by unique testing in a tinnitus-practice via three questionnaires over a period of 22 months.

Results: A relationship between the severity of tinnitus-related distress and demographic profile as well as a relationship between depression symptoms and the severity of the tinnitus-related distress could be shown. Also, significant results were observed within the personality range in the areas of "impulsiveness," "aggressiveness," "demands," "physical discomfort," "health worries," und "emotionality."

Discussion: Patients suffering severely from tinnitus represent a clinically relevant group for psychotherapeutic treatment. Especially persons with comorbid symptoms of depression should be screened regularly and offered additional psychotherapeutic or psychiatric treatment.