Yes, that effect is for those without PTSD. I used to live in many different places, all with special noises that I soon learned to "ignore" when necessary.

BUT PTSD doesn't allow that for us, does it? Our systems are first of all on hypervigilance, so nothing escapes us. Second, we are overwhelmed by "normal" daily living noises. Recently after "WILMA" two family members came over to stay a few days till the power came on (don't ask, I have no idea why they thought that was a good idea.) anyway, what with the generator running, the small window a/c (both of which they brought with them) the tv on, their conversation and their moving around MY SENSES were immediately fried! My sister exclaimed on her phone to another member, as though it was a "fault" of mine, that I was on "my last neuron." You'd think if she'd really understood PTSD she wouldn't have come at all, but certainly would have left once she said that!!!

My psychologist recently told me that NONE of his PTSD patients will go to a popular restaurant called "Fridays." I knew why, for the same reasons I don't go there: it's noisy: the floors are tile, the music is loud, it's ice cold , it has a center bar, the ceilings are tin, the walls bare, the talking is loud, lighting is bright! IT IS ALL TOO MUCH!

Sensory overload is a big problem for us with PTSD.

Try using ear plugs from time to time (I have a hearing impairment also due to the same injury that caused the PTSD, but I still carry ear plugs when I try to go to the movies, just in case it's too loud. I have been known to go ask the management to turn the sound down if I'm the only one in there, too!) I wear sunglasses outside, and transistion glasses inside (they darken according to the lighting.) Flourescent lights drive me bonkers too, as I can sense the flickering!)

I don't do well with noise machines, but my T gave me a CD for delta brain waves... it takes the brain straight to them, so I can fall asleep. It's "music" sounds but doesn't irritate me like noise tapes etc.

We could buy a mountain with a lion to protect us, and go live there, if you like. (Bears allowed too.)