Understanding Sensory Overload
What is sensory overload?
Sensory overload is an over-stimulation of the senses – hearing, sight, touch, taste, and smell. It varies from person to person and can be triggered by various stimuli. Recognising these triggers is crucial in providing tailored support.
Identifying triggers
Triggers can be diverse and depend on the individual client. They may include loud noises, crowded environments, certain textures, bright lights, or strong smells. Being aware of these triggers helps to create a safe environment for clients and minimise the risk of overload.
Managing Sensory Overload:
Create a toolbox of techniques that can be used in overwhelming situations. This may include practicing relaxation techniques such as mindfulness, creating a calm clutter-free environment, or using breathing exercises.
- Reducing Visual Stimulation:
Support the use of sunglasses or adjustable lighting to reduce glare in environments with bright lights. This can provide relief for individuals who are sensitive to visual stimuli.
- Minimising Auditory Distractions:
Encourage the use of noise-cancelling headphones or ear defenders to block out overwhelming sounds and promote concentration. Background white noise or calming music can also help create a more soothing auditory environment.
- Addressing Tactile Sensitivities:
Collaborate with individuals to identify tactile triggers and facilitate the use of items like fidget toys, stress balls, or soft-textured materials to provide comfort and redirect attention during moments of sensory overload.
- Neutralising Aversive Smells:
Support individuals in managing triggering smells by providing scented products or allowing the use of personal scents, such as perfume or essential oils, to create a more neutral olfactory environment.
- Engaging Other Senses
Encourage individuals to engage their senses in alternative ways, such as through art, music, or tactile activities. These activities can offer a positive sensory experience while diverting attention from overwhelming stimuli.
Collaborating with Professionals
Support Coordinators have the expertise to help clients who experience sensory overload lead fuller lives by implementing effective strategies. By understanding triggers, assisting in developing personalised techniques, and collaborating with other allied health and clinical professionals, clients can build trust and work towards their goals.
Debunking Myths about Sensory Overload:
One common myth is that only individuals with specific conditions like sensory processing disorders or autism experience sensory overload. However, sensory overload can affect anyone, regardless of whether they have a diagnosed condition.
Sensory overload is just being hypersensitive
Sensory overload is often misconstrued as simply being hypersensitive to sensory stimuli. While hypersensitivity can be a component of sensory overload, it is not the only factor. Sensory overload can occur due to a mismatch between sensory input and the brain’s ability to process it, leading to overwhelming sensations.
Sensory overload is a choice or exaggeration
Sensory overload is a genuine physiological response and is not within conscious control. Individuals experiencing sensory overload may genuinely feel overwhelmed and distressed.
Sensory overload is limited to certain senses
Another myth is that sensory overload only affects one or a few specific senses. However, sensory overload can involve any of the senses, including sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell. It is a multi-sensory experience that can vary from person to person.
Sensory overload can be completely cured or prevented
While strategies and techniques can help manage sensory overload, there is no universal cure or foolproof method to prevent it entirely. Sensory overload can be influenced by various factors, including individual differences and environmental triggers.
Understanding and debunking these myths is crucial for creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals who experience sensory overload.
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