Sensory overload affects many of us
You’re in the mall, doing your weekend errands. You’re handling it pretty well, but suddenly, there’s a blast of music coming from the store you’re passing, and a group of people rush by you, buffeting you with their bags. You’re panicked. What’s going on? You’ve just had an attack of “sensory overload”. When this happens, lights become too bright, sounds are too loud, you can smell odors more intensely and the slightest touch can feel like an attack. We began learning about sensory processing disorders from those with autism, but it also occurs with physical and mental health conditions such as anxiety, chronic fatigue, migraines, schizophrenia and fibromyalgia. If you have these conditions, be careful about over-scheduling yourself. Going into a sensory intense location when you’re rushed might not end well. Set yourself up for success.
