Support is being offered to people experiencing Tinnitus and Deafness. Chesterfield and North Derbyshire Tinnitus Support Group are running a free Conference to help people understand their condition, as well as offering advice and support on how to manage their difficulties. According to the Support Group, Tinnitus, which is ringing in the ears or head, can have a devastating affect on people’s lives. Stella Reddington, Chair of the Chesterfield and North Derbyshire Tinnitus Support Group explains “When I first started with Tinnitus, I couldn’t understand what was happening to me. There was a terrible noise in my ears which did not go away day or night. I couldn’t concentrate and lost weight.” According to the group, fear and anxiety is a common reaction to the onset of Tinnitus. The Conference will help people to understand their emotional reaction to Tinnitus and how to develop appropriate responses in order to manage their condition. Many people who experience Tinnitus also have hearing difficulties, and, therefore, it was decided that the Conference should offer help and support to those with hearing problems as well as Tinnitus. The Conference is not only aimed at people with Tinnitus and Deafness but also their families and friends who support them on a daily basis. Speakers at the Conference will include Martin Wass, Director of the British Tinnitus Association (BTA), Kymm Pettit, Senior Audiologist and Counsellor, Dr Petter Tungland, Audiovestibular Physician and expert in Tinnitus and Deafness, Janet Millard, Co-ordinator of Deaf and Hearing Support (CAMTAD ND), and the final speaker will be experienced in relaxation techniques. Audrey Carlin, Secretary of Chesterfield and North Derbyshire Tinnitus Support Group said “The Conference will enable people to meet others experiencing Tinnitus and Deafness as well as taking advice from the experts and finding out about new research into Tinnitus. We hope to finish on a relaxing note.” Stella Reddington continued “It is important to learn how to relax and focus your attention away from your Tinnitus in order to avoid the vicious circle of stress which in turn exacerbates Tinnitus.” The Tinnitus Support Group welcomes donations which will be sent to the BTA, specifically for the purpose of Tinnitus Research. There will also be Exhibitions and Displays with information to take away.