Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 13, 2026

The Unpredictable Chronic Mild Stress Protocol for Inducing Anhedonia in Mice
Published on: October 24, 2018
Anxiety and depression among Canadian undergraduates with decreased sound tolerance
Carter M Smith1, Natalia Van Esch1, Nichole E Scheerer1
1Department of Psychology, 75 University Avenue West N2L 3C5, Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada.
Abstract:
Decreased sound tolerance (DST) is an encompassing term for conditions marked by a reduced tolerance to everyday sounds. Misophonia, sensitivity to specific trigger sounds which cue aversive responses, is one DST subtype. Hyperacusis, another DST subtype, occurs when people are irritated by general sounds that are not bothersome to others. Research suggests that those with DST face heightened mental health challenges. Psychometrically validated measures aligned with the recent misophonia consensus definition have not assessed the relationship between misophonia and mental health. There is also a complete dearth of DST-mental health research in Canadian universities. Here, 2095 Canadian undergraduate students completed DST and mental health questionnaires. We explored the relationship between anxiety and depression and DST. We found strong, positive correlations between DST symptoms and mental health difficulties. These findings highlight DST's detrimental effects and the need for future research on strategies for managing and treating DST in post-secondary institutions.
Related Concept Videos
Stress and Mental Health
Individuals with depression often experience challenges in both their personal and professional...
Anxiety: Overview
Individuals with anxiety often experience a range of physical and emotional symptoms, including sweating, trembling, tachycardia, and disturbances in sleep patterns. These symptoms vary in intensity and frequency but are generally disruptive and distressing.
Psychological Responses to Stress
CNS Depressants: Barbiturates and Benzodiazepines
Depression: Overview
Generalized Anxiety Disorder

