#20 Sensory Overload

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Imagine being on a plane, the temperature fluctuating and every shift sending tingles down your spine. It's not the altitude, but an embodiment of sensory overload, a reality for many neurodiverse individuals like me.

This episode tackles the complex world of sensory overload, particularly how it impacts the daily lives of neurodiverse folks. We delve into the root causes, from the brain's unique processing of sensory information to environmental and emotional variables.

I share tried and tested strategies for managing this often overwhelming experience, like fostering self-awareness, regulating sensory input, and designing sensory-friendly environments. Ever wondered how ordinary scenarios, like family disagreements or weather changes, can trigger sensory overload?

As we explore the impact of sensory overload on daily life, I unravel my own experiences, touching on heightened senses of smell, taste, temperature, and the physical sensations that come along. Most importantly, we discuss how to recognize the brink of sensory overload before it escalates.

Navigating neurodivergent sensory disorders is no easy feat but understanding and treating ourselves should be our main goal. I share my personal journey of living with sensory overload, shedding light on practical coping mechanisms.

From the role of medication to the therapeutic effect of breaks and environmental changes, we discuss various tools to lessen the intensity of sensory overload. Lastly, we touch on some simple yet powerful strategies to find relief, like chewing gum, earplugs, noise-canceling headphones, and even small tweaks to your living space.