For George, life in the Defence Force meant more than 20 years of service alongside some of Australia’s finest men and women. Years surrounded by heavy machinery, weapons training, and noisy environments eventually took a toll — one that didn’t become clear until after he hung up the uniform. It started as a faint, high-pitched sound in the quiet moments. Over time, that sound grew louder, sharper, and impossible to escape. “I thought I could handle it at first,” George says. “But tinnitus isn’t something you can just switch off. It followed me everywhere — at work, at home, even when I tried to sleep. It stole my silence.”



Living With Tinnitus The constant ringing took its toll. Sleep became fragmented. Concentration slipped. And the frustration of never getting a moment of true quiet weighed heavily on George’s wellbeing. Like many veterans, George tried to push through on his own. But tinnitus is relentless. Without the right tools, it can affect every part of life — relationships, work, and mental health. Taking the First Step George’s turning point came when he decided to seek help. Through Tinnitus Relief Australia, he discovered a program built specifically for veterans like him — combining sound therapy, counselling, and practical strategies designed to help the brain tune out the noise. “It was the first time I felt like someone actually understood what I was going through,” he explains. “They weren’t just looking at a condition. They were looking at me, as a veteran, and what this ringing had done to my life.” Life After Support With guidance and ongoing support, George noticed changes he once thought impossible:

• Better sleep: nights without being woken up by the ringing.
• Sharper focus: the ability to work and enjoy hobbies again.
• Improved mood: less frustration, more calm.

Most importantly, he regained a sense of control.
“Tinnitus might still be there, but it doesn’t control me anymore. I’ve got my life back.” Why George Shares His Story George tells his story for one reason — to help other veterans know they don’t have to suffer in silence. “Tinnitus is isolating. You feel like nobody else can hear what you’re hearing. But you’re not alone. There is support out there, and it really does make a difference.” If George’s story sounds familiar, you’re not alone. At Tinnitus Relief Australia, we’re here to help veterans find calm, confidence, and control again.
Book your tinnitus consultation today

The Sound Only You Can Hear Imagine a constant ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound that never goes away. For millions of Australians, this is their daily reality. Tinnitus is one of the most common hearing-related issues, yet it’s often misunderstood. If you live with tinnitus, you’re not alone — and while there’s no “switch it off” cure, there are proven ways to manage it and take back control.



What Exactly Is Tinnitus? Tinnitus isn’t a disease in itself. Instead, it’s a symptom — the brain’s way of reacting to changes or damage in the hearing system. People often describe it as:

• Ringing in the ears
• Buzzing or humming
• Whistling or hissing
• A roaring or rushing sound

The sound may be constant or come and go, soft or overwhelming. Why Does Tinnitus Happen? There are several common causes:

• Noise exposure: Concerts, machinery, firearms, or military service.
• Age-related hearing loss: Natural changes in the auditory system.
• Ear health issues: Blockages, infections, or inner ear conditions.
• Stress and fatigue: Which can make tinnitus feel more noticeable.

For veterans, tinnitus is one of the most reported service-related health conditions due to prolonged noise exposure. How Tinnitus Affects Daily Life It’s more than just an annoying sound. Tinnitus can:

• Disrupt sleep patterns
• Make it harder to focus at work or school
• Increase stress and anxiety
• Strain relationships with loved ones

Left unmanaged, it can impact mental wellbeing — but support is available. Managing Tinnitus While tinnitus can’t be “cured” in the traditional sense, many people find relief through:

• Hearing aids and sound therapy that help mask the noise.
• Lifestyle adjustments such as reducing caffeine and protecting hearing.
• Relaxation techniques like mindfulness and deep breathing.
• Professional support from audiologists and specialists.

You Don’t Have to Face It Alone At Tinnitus Relief Australia, we’ve seen how the right support transforms lives. Our team works with both veterans and the wider community to find personalised solutions. Take the first step today — book your free tinnitus self-check and explore how you can take back control of the ringing.