sensory overload symptoms are wild
having sensory overload symptoms can be so weird at times. like how am I to explain that my sock twisted in my sneaker is causing me to loose focus on being able to listen to your directions or that I’m feeling mad because the wrong light is on? or worse that the tag in my shirt that feels like a thorn stabbing me is causing me to be late for an appointment because I had to cut it out but then realized it created a hole in the seam and am now sewing it because the wind that would pass through the hole would further steal my attention.
do you feel me? lol
our aversions and our cravings for sensory input/output are all different. perhaps you have taken notice to my lowercase use in my writing, it’s intentional, but I recognize it may distract and/or bother others. sometimes I have to challenge myself to fight my desire for things to be in order. a neat environment soothes my chaotic mind, it provides me input that tells me I am safe.
learning how your environment impacts you by understanding what your sensory overload symptoms may be teaching you about your emotional needs can be useful. we process cues and store them in our subconscious and they can impact us in profound ways that we may not even realize are affecting us.
if you are wanting to take a look at how you process information with you sensory system I have created a guide for you to begin exploring. you can download your copy to see what information you can learn about how to be more aware of it’s impact on your daily routines. be mindful this activity is not diagnosing you. its purpose is to invite you to take a look at how you process information with you sensory system. *note that a clinician, occupational therapist and/or mental health provider who is specialized in sensory processing disorders can assist you in finding a “sensory diet” that meets your needs.
if you’d like to learn more about sensory processing visit the STAR Institute. There has been expansive research and resources that include programs for children’s needs, research connecting trauma to increased sensory processing disorder and how sensory systems impact those with neurodivergence to name a few..
i’m excited to hear from, feel free to share in the comments what you learn.
xo-d
PS also, using art in tandem with healing your mind is known to be beneficial.
PPS if you are interested in exploring art with your senses sign up for 1:1 coursework to work with dKol’s therapeutic art programs.