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Misophonia accessibility: practical ideas

A public awareness guide for schools, workplaces, healthcare settings and community spaces.

Begin with the actual barrier

An accommodation works best when it addresses a specific problem. Ask which sound or related cue causes difficulty, when it occurs, and what effect it has on participation. Avoid assuming that all people with misophonia need the same changes.

Schools and classrooms

• Consider seating options and quieter places for independent work when feasible.
• Offer advance information about unusually noisy activities.
• Discuss how the student can request a break without unnecessary public attention.
• Review arrangements with the student and relevant school staff.

Workplaces

• Consider alternatives to shared spaces where specific recurring sounds interfere with work.
• Discuss optional notification sounds, quiet meeting arrangements and remote participation where appropriate.
• Agree on a way to revisit an arrangement if circumstances change.

Healthcare and services

• Where practical, offer alternatives to noisy waiting areas or different appointment arrangements.
• Explain sensory aspects of an appointment in advance when possible.
• Allow the person to describe what would make participation easier.

Technology and online environments

Optional notification sounds, control over animations and other user-adjustable settings can reduce avoidable sensory barriers. See the Sensory Accessible Technology Initiative (SAT-I) and Gaming Accessibility.

A short planning conversation

1. What specific barrier is happening?
2. When and where does it happen?
3. What change would the person prefer?
4. Is that change workable in this setting?
5. When will everyone review whether it helps?

For an opportunity to contribute experiences and practical ideas, visit the Misophonia Accessibility Guide project.

Further reading: Swedo et al. (2022), consensus definition of misophonia.

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This is public educational information, not a diagnosis or individualized clinical recommendation. Misophonia experiences differ; ask people which adjustments are useful to them.