Musician Struggles with Debilitating Condition: Misophonia

Hatred of chewing sounds has derailed careers and personal lives for those with this little-known disorder.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 2:33am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A glowing neon outline of an amplified human ear against a dark background, symbolizing the heightened sensitivity to sound experienced by those with misophonia.The intense aversion to common sounds like chewing can be a debilitating condition for those with misophonia.Somerset Today

Ben Crofts, a 50-year-old musician from Somerset, has lived with misophonia, an intense aversion to certain sounds like chewing, for his entire life. This condition has caused him immense anxiety, ruined personal relationships, and significantly impacted his career as a professional musician.

Why it matters

Misophonia is a little-known but debilitating condition that affects an estimated 1 in 5 people. Those with misophonia experience an extreme, involuntary emotional and physiological reaction to specific sounds, often leading to social isolation, strained relationships, and difficulties in school or the workplace.

The details

Crofts first experienced symptoms of misophonia as a child, becoming overwhelmed and enraged by the sounds of people eating or making other repetitive noises. Over the years, he has developed coping mechanisms like wearing noise-cancelling headphones, but the condition has still taken a major toll, causing him to quit several music jobs and avoid social situations.

  • Crofts has lived with misophonia symptoms since childhood.
  • He has had to quit several music jobs over the years due to his condition.

The players

Ben Crofts

A 50-year-old musician from Somerset who has struggled with misophonia, an intense aversion to certain sounds like chewing, for his entire life.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The sound of someone chewing can send me into a rage. I've had to leave rooms, events, even quit jobs because of it. It's ruined my life in so many ways.”

— Ben Crofts, Musician

The takeaway

Misophonia is a little-known but debilitating condition that can severely impact a person's personal and professional life. More research and awareness is needed to help those suffering from this disorder find effective coping strategies and support.