Totally hear you @
raging vortex. I used to wear earplugs but only to help me sleep, which was good. I don't need them anymore. But I've only been wearing the headphones when I'm out and about, even at the supermarket, but I do take them off until I feel I need to put them back on again. I have bad social anxiety you see, so the music helps to stop my brain from sending me triggering thoughts. Plus I look 'cooler' now, so that helps too. 😂
Give headphones a try when you go outdoors next time, raging vortex. If it can give you a bit of peace it might be worth it.