avoidance of specific places, such as the kitchen or bathroomĪbout 15% of children have sensory processing difficulties.Common symptoms of sensory overload include: Research also suggests that children with ADHD have more difficulty than adults regulating their emotional responses and processing input from their senses. In extreme cases, they may experience a kind of physical pain, even from everyday things such as a light touch or being able to hear several ongoing conversations. This could lead to a feeling of being overwhelmed when something unexpected happens.Īfter encountering a trigger, some people with sensory overload cannot function properly until their senses normalize again. They may also find it challenging to register new stimuli or changes in their environment.

Moreover, people with ADHD and sensory overload may be unable to quickly “switch gears” in terms of the activity in which they are taking part. When people with ADHD become overstimulated, they may be unable to focus as environmental factors or sensations crowd their brains. They may exhibit certain behaviors, such as a higher, or possibly lower, sensitivity to their surroundings.ĪDHD makes it difficult for many people to regulate their emotions or actions, even in relation to things that may seem simple to other people.

Depending on the person and situation, people may overreact, underreact, or react at inappropriate times. The symptoms of sensory overload in individuals with ADHD vary widely, so it may be difficult to recognize the signs at first.

Taste: Certain spices, strong flavors, or food temperatures can sometimes lead to sensory overload.

For these individuals, such sounds could result in a stress reaction.

Sound: Many people with ADHD are hypersensitive to auditory stimulants such as multiple simultaneous conversations, loud music, fireworks, or grating noises.

Sight: Harsh or flashing lights may be a trigger for some people.

Possible culprits include artificial fragrances, perfumes, detergent, shampoo, and food. Scents that may not bother most people may be overwhelming to those with a heightened sense of smell.

Smell: Strong smells or odors could cause sensory overload.

For some, even the feeling of water when swimming or showering could trigger a response.

Texture: Certain food textures or scratchy, rough, or restrictive clothing could overwhelm the sense of touch.

The same goes for unexpected physical contact, such as a spontaneous hug or a pat on the shoulder.

Touch: A touch that is too light, firm, or sudden could lead to sensory overload.

Research into ADHD and sensory overload is still ongoing, but some of the most common triggers include: Anything that stimulates one or more of the senses could trigger sensory overload, although triggers vary among individuals.

Sensory meltdown