Sensory overload is a feeling of anxiety that happens when you experience too much sensory input.
It is a common feature of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
When you experience sensory overload, you might feel anxious, overwhelmed, or even panicky.
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You may also have physical symptoms like sweating and a racing heart.
People who are experiencing sensory overload may cover their ears or eyes to block out the stimulus.
Research has also found that adults with ADHD tend to report more sensory sensitivity than adults without ADHD.
This can make it difficult to meet expectations at school or work.
People experiencing sensory overload can have a range of emotional and physical symptoms.
Not everyone will respond to sensory overload in the same way.
Children may have meltdowns or emotional outbursts.
For some people, symptoms won’t resolve until the sensory input stops.
Sounds, sights, and sensations are intensified.
It can be really challenging to navigate through life with all that noise.
But more commonly, particularly in people with ADHD, this disorder causes hypersensitivity to sensory information.
Treatment for sensory overload can be integrated into this protocol.
This condition causes problems processing sensory input.
Sensory overload may cause disordered thoughts, anxiety, panicky sensations, or physical symptoms like nausea and sweating.
2020;104:103696. doi:10.1016/j.ridd.2020.103696
Understood.org.ADHD and sensory overload.
Attention Deficit Disorder Association.ADHD & sensory overload: managing overstimulation in a fast-paced world.
University of Michigan Health.Sensory processing disorder.
STAR Institute.Understanding the sensory integration process.
