4 Ways To Manage Sensory Overload

What do crowded places, loud noises, flickering lights, strong smells all have in common? They are triggers for those who struggle with sensory overload issues. 

Tim and I went out to eat recently. We got out of the car to hear loud music playing. We walked in to the restaurant and the music is even louder, if that is possible. There are at least 4 televisions showing some type of sport related event. Lights around us are flickering. If anybody is talking, they are yelling to be heard.

For most people, this setting would have been tolerable. You might have even been singing along with the music. However, I suffer with sensory overload issues. I have been known to walk into a restaurant, here the music playing loudly, turn around and walk back out again.

Now whenever, T and I go out, I make sure to carry my noise reducing ear buds with me. They do not cancel out all noise, but they make it so much more tolerable.

Flickering lights are another trigger for me. Sadly, I am usually the only one that can tell the light is flickering.

Managing Sensory Overload 

1. Keep the noise level down. 


In situations where you control the environment, try to keep the noise levels low. Try to avoid carrying on conversations while watching tv.


2. Buy some noise canceling headphones. 


Buy yourself some noise canceling headphones or ear buds. <- They really do help.


3. Avoid trigger situations. 


If visiting a certain restaurant is a known trigger for you, choose a different one.


4. Clean the clutter. 


Clutter can create as much chaos for your brain as loud music or flickering lights. <-- it affects me and makes me afraid to move.

James 4:13-17 NIV


Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.” Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.” As it is, you boast in your arrogant schemes. All such boasting is evil. If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them.


Dear Father,  thank You for always being with me. Father, please forgive me for thinking that my ways are better than Your ways. I never mean to boast. I am fully aware that my life is but a mist. Please help me to avoid such boastings and instead say, " if it is the Lord's will". You are in control, you know about my suffering, you know everything there is to know. Thank You so much. In Jesus' name, Amen.

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Do you struggle with sensory overload issues?
Do you have any tips that you can share?
How can I pray for you today?
If you will allow it,  I will be happy to help carry your load.

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