A Double Shot of Espresso Please!

We’ve all been there, it’s the evening out you have been looking forward to, you show up at the new restaurant you have been dying to try. There’s delicious food, fabulous service and stellar company. However, you soon realize there’s a problem, the problem is you just can’t hear comfortably. What was supposed to be a great evening out leaves you feeling frustrated and exhausted. You call the waiter over and order yourself another double shot of espresso.

Whilst exhaustion after being in an intense listening environment is common it’s not always recognized by the individual experiencing. Listening intently especially over background noise requires energy and listening effort. This exhaustion is often referred to as “listening Fatigue.” And it can be experienced by anyone, however, those that have a hearing loss are more likely to experience it.

Over the years, I’ve shared the following tips with my clients who experience it. I hope these tips help you out the next time you find yourself in the trendiest restaurant in town feeling like you need another double shot of espresso just to make it through the evening.

Tip#1 Recognize that it can happen in all sorts of situations where noise is dominant. For example with television, music, radio and especially earbud use. If you’re going to be in a noisy environment be mindful of what you’re doing before. Give yourself some quiet time before you enter that space.

Tip#2 When you’re in that space; take breaks. Even a bathroom break can help the mind rest.

Tip#3 In a restaurant, don’t be afraid to ask to switch seats to a more favorable location or if you’re at work change your environment, take your lunch outside.

Tip#4 When you’re feeling exhausted take a deep cleansing breath, this simple and small act will go a long way…I promise.

Tip#5 If you feel comfortable let the people you’re with know you’re experiencing listening fatigue. The chances are they are also struggling with the noise too.