Sensory Overwhelm in Autism: An Excessive Stimulation Experience

In the world of autism, sensory overload and overstimulation are common experiences for many individuals. These terms refer to an inability to comfortably process excessive sensory input, which can include noise, bright lights, textures, smells, social demands, visual clutter, crowds, unpredictability, and prolonged exposure to challenging environments.

To manage sensory overload, individuals with autism can employ various personal strategies. These strategies may include mindfulness, taking sensory breaks, utilising sensory tools, and implementing a personal rating system to gauge their tolerance levels.

Sensory overload can manifest in several ways. It may lead to increased irritability, agitation, heightened sensory sensitivity, physical symptoms, difficulty focusing, difficulty processing information, a need to escape or be alone, changes in speech, being unable to speak, increased self-stimulatory behaviours, feeling hot or uncomfortable, needing to cover eyes or ears, emotional outbursts, and reaching a meltdown point.

During downtime, it's crucial to recalibrate the sensory system and prevent overstimulation. Examples of sensory-friendly activities include taking a quiet walk in nature, engaging in a repetitive, calming activity, creating a sensory cocoon, listening to white noise or nature sounds, engaging in a special interest in a low-pressure, sensory-friendly way, and trying mindfulness exercises specifically designed for sensory regulation.

One common indicator that an autistic person is feeling overstimulated is that their head feels all "fuzzy," like there is too much swirling around in their brain.

Creating a sensory-friendly environment at home can help prevent overstimulation. This may involve having a designated quiet space, well-ventilated spaces, designated storage boxes, painting walls a dark or muted colour, using modular furniture, and reducing digital overstimulation with analog clocks and physical calendars.

When supporting someone experiencing overstimulation, it's essential to remove them from the overwhelming environment, provide opportunities for them to engage in calming activities, use clear and calm communication, not forcing verbal responses, guiding them through deep breathing exercises, respecting their need for alone time if requested, allowing time to recover without rushing, and once recovered, discussing strategies for future situations.

Early intervention and support can significantly improve outcomes for individuals with autism. It's important to provide appropriate services and supports to help individuals with the disorder reach their full potential. Autism affects approximately 1 in 54 children in the United States, and it is four times more common in boys than in girls.

Autism is a spectrum disorder, meaning that it affects each person differently and to varying degrees. Some people with autism may require significant support, while others may be able to lead independent and fulfilling lives.

Communicating needs with people you live with, friends, and family can help them understand what your triggers are and how they can help you. Examples of communicating needs include agreeing on specific non-verbal gestures, practicing assertive phrases, using smartphone apps to type out needs, using colored badges or wristbands to indicate current tolerance level, and not relying on another person to help you entirely.

Autistic individuals may have difficulty understanding and interpreting social cues, and may struggle with making and maintaining friendships. They may also have difficulty with transitions and changes in routine. However, it's important to note that autistic people may have unique talents and abilities, and may excel in areas such as mathematics, art, music, or technology.

To prevent or recover from autistic overstimulation, individuals can identify their triggers, adjust the environment, create a sensory-friendly environment, use calming sounds or music, take breaks, practice deep breathing exercises, engage in self-care activities, and seek support from others when needed. Autistic individuals may benefit from accommodations and supports in school, work, and other settings to help them succeed and reach their full potential.

It's crucial to promote awareness and understanding of autism to reduce stigma and support individuals with the disorder. This involves educating oneself and others about the condition, advocating for appropriate services and accommodations, and fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for individuals with autism.

[1] National Autistic Society. (2021). Sensory issues and autism. https://www.autism.org.uk/about/what-is/sensory/

[2] Understood. (2021). Sensory overload and meltdowns in kids with learning and thinking differences. https://www.understood.org/en/learning-attention-issues/symptoms-and-causes/sensory-issues/sensory-overload-and-meltdowns-in-kids-with-learning-and-thinking-differences

[3] Autism Speaks. (2021). Sensory sensitivities. https://www.autismspeaks.org/autism-101/symptoms-and-causes/sensory-sensitivities

[4] Ota, K., & Kern, J. K. (2018). Sensory integration and occupational therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder. Pediatrics, 141(Supplement 2), S65-S70. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2017-1854L

[5] Kern, J. K., & Ota, K. (2017). Sensory integration and autism spectrum disorder. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 71(1), 49-56. https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2017.000517