The doctor's note is fucking brilliant, and probably would have saved me a few thousand headaches.

For what it’s worth (to you and anyone else reading) I was able to obtain that note because I have an ADHD diagnosis and my doctor understood (upon explanation) that I have pretty severe cognitive difficulties under sensory stress-particularly auditory overstimulation.

This wasn’t meant as a comment saying I got a doctor’s note casually (not that I think you’re suggesting that interpretation, I’m just realizing it’s important to clarify). I got it because I was sincerely concerned about the cognitive impact going into the office as demanded would have on me and my work.

If you have a similar response to sensory stimulation, I highly recommend looking into it! I’m coming from the perspective of it being common with ADHD and ASD, which aren’t the only bases for it; if you mean headaches literally, do yourself a favor and talk to your doc about why sound or any other sensory issue might be affecting you that way.

Turns out, I do too, so I appreciate the follow up. For me what really did it (in my most recent attempt at holding a job) was the sound of my colleagues eating at their desk.

Yup that’s a common one! For me it’s usually certain vocal ranges, and others’ subconscious habits like tapping their feet.

If I had to guess, that sounds an awful lot like hyperacusis. Which is more common in ADHD, along with auditory processing disorder and potentially even tinnitus.

For me, I'd lean more toward Misophonia, though they have very similar descriptions. The sound doesn't cause pain, just intense emotional reactions.