For many people in the world, eating a meal with family or friends is an overall pleasant experience. For others, however, there is something called misophonia. It literally means "hatred of sound," and for many people, it centers around hearing people chew. Misophonia is currently not recognized as a disorder by standard diagnostic criteria, and there is no evidence-based research on it, thus far. In fact, many people don't even know it exists. However, here are some common thoughts of those of us who just can't stand hearing others chew.

1. When you first sit down to eat, and try to have a positive outlook.

2. When the crunching, slurping and chomping inevitably begin.

4. When there are apples, raw carrots, celery, or kettle-cooked chips being eaten.

5. When people can't even eat soft foods quietly -- do you really have to chew your yogurt or soft-serve ice cream?

6. When you meet someone who also hates hearing other people chew, and can relate to your angst.

7. When someone licks their fingers.

8. When someone is eating in class and you can't focus.

9. Slurping is a nightmare -- avoid hot drinks and soups whenever possible.

10. Feeling guilty for unintentionally making rude comments and faces.

11. At the end of the day, you still love your family and friends -- no matter how loudly they may eat.

Please bear with us, everyone. We know it's not your fault, and that it's irrational to get so angry over something so minor. And we also know that we are guilty of chewing loudly sometimes, too! We really do wish that we could ignore the noises, but we just can't. We aren't trying to be mean, rude, or hurtful -- it's a feeling and reaction we honestly can't control very well. And, if you're someone who can relate to this, know that you're not alone in your hatred of chewing noises!