Sensory Overload: What is it, and How Do We Cope?
It’s Common for Many, Yet Lacks Understanding
Hearing multiple sounds at once makes me want to yell. I'm not too fond of the television being on and someone watching a video on their phone at the same time. The simultaneous sound of both the television and the phone is enough to make my brain panic. I despise trying to navigate multiple conversations with multiple people. I lose focus and want to be everywhere at once.
Last weekend, I wanted my significant other to listen to a new song, and I had them mute the music on their video game so they could listen to the song. The overwhelming feeling is not limited to only sounds either; it’s multiple methods of sensory input, so if my temperature changes from hot to cold really quickly, my skin itches, or a texture grosses me out, it’s enough to send my brain into overdrive.
Too much sensory input is overwhelming for individuals like me. I’m a Highly Sensitive Person, which means I constantly absorb so much of my environment, I also have an Anxiety Disorder, so this factor also complicates my world.
The way this manifests for each person is different. For example, it is difficult for me to drive and carry on a conversation if I’m anxious or in stressful traffic. It is also difficult for me to have a phone…
