A new study published in the journal Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment has found that chronic tinnitus (persistent ringing or noise in the ears) is closely associated with depression and anxiety—and this link becomes stronger as symptoms worsen.

Scientists analyzed data from 100 adult patients suffering from subjective tinnitus for at least six months. The main goal was to understand how the severity of ear noise affects mental health.

The results were quite revealing. The more severe the tinnitus, the higher the levels of depression and anxiety.

Even after accounting for other factors, this relationship remained. Higher scores on the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI) were directly associated with more pronounced symptoms of depression and anxiety.

A particularly important point is the “dose effect”:

the more severe the tinnitus, the higher the risk of serious mental health disorders. In patients with severe tinnitus, the likelihood of moderate or severe depression increased more than threefold, and anxiety nearly tripled.

Overall, about one-third of the study participants had clinically significant symptoms: approximately 28% had depression and 31% had anxiety.

The authors emphasize that this is not merely a coincidence. Tinnitus is not just a hearing issue, but a condition closely linked to the functining of the nervous system and emotional regulation. It can increase stress, disrupt sleep, and reduce concentration—thereby creating a vicious cycle: the greater the discomfort, the worse the mental state, and vice versa.

The researchers draw a practical conclusion: doctors (especially ENT specialists) should regularly assess the mental health of patients with tinnitus and take a comprehensive approach to treatment— involving psychologists or psychiatrists.