I honestly don't remember when it started but I think it's stress-related due to an over-developed sense of responsibility -- esp. acting as caretaker for a loved one. For example, when I was hospitalized for 6 days, I called it "the best vacation I've ever had!" The reason? I was waited on hand & foot all day, every day. Didn't have to do a thing except, order meals (all my favorites, of course), eat, read or watch TV, and sleep! Maybe it was the drugs, but I didn't have tinnitus during the entire stay.