Struggling to Find My Voice in Noisy Environments
At 31 years old, standing at 5'3" and weighing 170 lbs, I’m currently on medications including Wellbutrin, birth control, and propranolol. I also navigate through complex medical conditions like Complex PTSD and Level 2 Autism Spectrum Disorder. I often find it extraordinarily challenging to manage my speaking volume; I can only maintain control for brief moments. When I make an effort to lower my voice, it becomes a strenuous task, leaving me feeling as if I'm merely whispering. If I cannot hear the sound of my own speech, I tend to believe that others around me cannot hear me either. Yet, when I try to speak at what I consider a low volume, I’m frequently met with remarks about being too loud. This is especially true in busy, autism-related settings where multiple conversations and noises occur simultaneously. It's equally frustrating in scenarios where I assume my voice won't carry over the loud TV or music. I am aware of my auditory processing challenges. Despite undergoing numerous hearing tests due to concerns about potential deafness, the results always confirm that my hearing is within normal ranges. This realization has prompted me to assert to those around me that if they anticipate me being able to regulate my volume to a level that feels like a whisper at all times, I simply cannot be present. This expectation is not feasible for me. Given that my hearing is deemed adequate, I genuinely wonder why others perceive my voice as too loud when my own auditory feedback is so muted.
Answers (1)
2/9/2026, 9:10:27 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are facing significant challenges with managing your voice volume in noisy environments, which can be understandably frustrating, especially considering your auditory processing challenges and the context of your medical conditions. This experience is common for many who have similar sensory processing differences, and there are strategies that may help you navigate these situations more comfortably.
Explanation:
Auditory processing challenges can make it difficult to gauge how loud your voice is, particularly in environments with competing sounds. While your hearing tests indicate normal hearing, your brain may process sound differently, impacting how you perceive your own voice and others’ feedback about your loudness. Additionally, certain medications can also affect auditory perception, though they are not typically linked to speech volume directly.
Next Steps:
Here are some prioritized actions to consider:
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Practice Vocal Modulation: Engage in methods to practice speaking softly. This could involve exercises where you gradually lower your voice in a calm setting, such as at home, and receive feedback from trusted friends or family. They can help gauge your volume without the external distractions of noise.
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Use Visual or Kinesthetic Cues: Try to develop a system, such as visual reminders or physical cues (like a hand signal) from those around you to remind you when your volume increases. This can help you adjust your voice more easily in social settings.
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Explore Relaxation Techniques: Since you mentioned feeling strenuous when adjusting your voice, consider incorporating relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or mindfulness practices. These can help manage anxiety related to voice control and may enhance your overall comfort in loud environments.
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Communicate Your Needs: Continue advocating for yourself by explaining your challenges to those you spend time with. Share that you may need their understanding in loud settings and a little more patience while you work on voice modulation.
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Seek Speech Therapy: If possible, consider reaching out to a speech therapist who specializes in working with individuals on the autism spectrum. They can offer tailored strategies to improve your awareness of volume.
By focusing on these prioritized steps, you can work towards feeling more comfortable and confident in managing your voice in noisy situations. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help and advocate for what you need. Let me know if you need more specific information on any of these strategies!
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