Objectives: The objective of this study was to examine the psychiatric characteristics of patients with tinnitus according to its severity. Methods:A total of 88 subjects were included in this study. According to Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI) scores, the subjects were classified into two group; a mild-tinnitus group and a severe-tinnitus group. Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) were compared in two group for assessment of psychiatric characteristics. Result:Higher THI scores were positively correlated with tinnitus course, the number of accompanying symptoms. BDI total scores, BDI factors and BAI total scores were significantly higher in the severe-tinnitus group than in the mild-tinnitus group. Also suicidal ideation, interpersonal problems, sleep problems, occupational impairment, and fatigue were significantly higher in the severe-tinnitus group than in the mild-tinnitus group. Conclusion:Tinnitus is a common disorder which is associated frequently with psychiatric problems. This study suggests that psychiatric interventions should be taken into consideration in the treatment of patients who have higer THI score.