Hi there!
I’ve been thinking a lot about sensory overload/overstimulation (after spending the week at my Mother-In-Law’s house 🤭)… and how I never considered this to be something that I struggled with, as someone with ADHD. But, alas.. it is. It definitely, most certainly, 1000% is.
People with ADHD often have a lower threshold for sensory stimulation, which means they can become overwhelmed more easily in environments with high levels of sensory input.
Overstimulation can happen in various situations, such as crowded or noisy environments, multitasking, or when facing a high workload.
Here are some signs that you’re overstimulated (that you might not recognize right away):
Physical fatigue ✔️✔️✔️
Irritability ✔️
Difficulty concentrating ✔️
Restlessness ✔️✔️✔️
(wow - these sound familiar, no?)
Okay, but let’s look at some ways to arm yourself in an overstimulating environment, shall we? A few of my faves are:
Breathing exercises - I like this very simple exercise over on Youtube
Loop Earplugs - and let’s talk about all the pretty colors/styles they offer now. They’re quite dreamy. 😍
Bose Wireless noise-canceling headphones (on sale on Amazon currently 😉)
Fidget toys - I’m a big, giant fan of Speks magnetic balls. I love them so much that I reached out to partner with them! Use code TRINA10 for 10% Off your entire order 🥳
🌟Check out my entire list of ADHD-friendly tools/gadgets that I recommend over on my Amazon Storefront
What tools do you find helpful in over-stimulating situations?
Something else I’ve been thinking a lot about… my PODCAST! Today I’m dropping episode #34 😲 and I can’t tell you how proud I am for sticking with this thing. It’s lost a lot of dopamine hits along the way — podcasting is not for the faint at heart, let’s just say that. I’ve been so fortunate to interview so many amazing experts, friends, and even a few celebrities along the way. I have so many big plans for the podcast and I hope you stick along for this ride because it’s not going anywhere any time soon.
This week’s episode is LIVE and I can’t wait for you to give it a listen. It’s an important one featuring ADHD Career Coach, Shell Mendelson.
I’m positive I’m forgetting things… if you want to check out all of the happenings at My Lady ADHD, visit here
Much, much, much love -
Trina 😘
So much this! I’ve started describing it as being “full”. Antique malls and makeup stores fill me up very quickly. My (also ADHD) daughters can prowl for hours in such places, but not me. My mom also “gets full” at a mall. And I get full when we have company at our house. This even with ADHD meds, although it’s much better with medication. Also, I’ve had some of those tiny magnetic beads for years. Thanks for all the great tips!