What causes irritability upon hearing someone's voice, and what should be done about it?

Generally, the reasons for feeling irritated upon hearing a person's voice may include high sensitivity, overstimulation, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety disorders, depression, and other conditions. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical treatment promptly. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. High Sensitivity

Some individuals are particularly sensitive to external stimuli, including auditory input. Due to heightened sensitivity to sound frequency, volume, or quality, even normal sounds may trigger feelings of irritation, aversion, or tension. It is advisable to spend time in quiet environments and avoid noisy surroundings, which can help reduce auditory stimulation and discomfort.

2. Overstimulation

In certain cases, individuals may already be in a state of overstimulation—for example, from prolonged exposure to noisy work or living environments. Under such circumstances, even ordinary sounds may provoke irritability, tinnitus, or a sensation of ear fullness. Using appropriate earplugs or other protective devices is recommended to help reduce the impact and harm caused by noise.

3. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

ADHD may arise from abnormal brain development. Individuals with ADHD often experience difficulties with attention and struggle to concentrate. When attempting to focus on a task or activity, background sounds may interfere with their concentration, leading to symptoms such as distractibility, confusion, and irritability. Treatment may include medications such as atomoxetine hydrochloride capsules, methylphenidate hydrochloride tablets, or bupropion hydrochloride tablets, taken under medical supervision.

4. Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders may result from individual psychological factors. People with anxiety often excessively focus on their internal sensations and external stimuli. Upon hearing someone’s voice, they may become overly attentive to the sound, resulting in feelings of irritability, tension, or palpitations. Medications such as oxazepam tablets, lorazepam tablets, or amitriptyline hydrochloride tablets may be prescribed under a doctor's guidance for treatment.

5. Depression

The onset of depression is closely associated with personality traits. Depression affects neurotransmitters in the brain related to mood regulation, such as serotonin and dopamine. Imbalances in these neurotransmitters can lead to emotional fluctuations and instability, making individuals more prone to exaggerated emotional responses to external stimuli. As a result, even an ordinary sound may be perceived as irritating or disruptive, triggering negative emotions such as irritability, sadness, or despair. Treatment may involve medications such as maprotiline hydrochloride tablets, mirtazapine tablets, or venlafaxine hydrochloride sustained-release capsules, taken as directed by a physician.

In addition, maintaining healthy daily habits—including sufficient sleep, a balanced diet, and moderate physical activity—can have positive effects on emotional well-being and mental health.