Sensory overload occurs when the brain receives an overload of data by means of the senses.
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Sensory overload occurs when the brain receives an overload of data by means of the senses.
Whenever possible, I carry around things with me that can either block out or distract me from bad sensory input, such as noise cancelling headphones, sunglasses, my favorite perfume or other nice smelling things, weighted blanket, fidget toys. It may help if you write a list of particular environments or situations that can result in sensory overload and give yourself permission to avoid or limit your exposure to them. Don’t put yourself in situations that you know will lead to overload just because you feel like you should. Your sensory needs are real and you deserve to be comfortable.
Most of the times, you cannot avoid sensory overload, you can only learn to manage it. In fact, it is advisable to learn what helps you deal with it, as it can be different for every person. I usually get overstimulated from conversation and social interactions, or from touch. If I’m at work I have a fidget bracelet I keep with me, or I go hide in the bathroom for 5-10 minutes looking at cat pictures or something related to my special interest. It’s really just to hold myself together until I get home. If I’m home, I try to lie down and read, or watch crappy TV, or read about my special interest. What’s really important for me is that I cut off contact and conversation with people. It just makes it worse.