ADHD and Sensory Overload

ADHD can be physically and emotionally exhausting, especially when sensory overload is involved. Sensory overload occurs when an individual gets more input from their five senses than the brain can sort through and process. An individual can also have trouble processing or be easily overwhelmed by other senses including vestibular senses (head movements), proprioception (muscle and joint movement) and interception (internal bodily sensations such as hunger, thirst or feeling cold). Anyone can experience sensory overload and triggers are different for different people, however people with ADHD are more likely to be overwhelmed by sensory input than those who don’t have ADHD.

Although there is no cure, individuals with ADHD can lead a healthy, full life with the right treatment and management of the condition. See our next post for tips and strategies to help people with ADHD manage sensory overload and other symptoms! Also check out this link for more information about sensory overload.