ADHD and Overstimulation: Understanding Sensory Overload

The world is full of sensory input—sounds, sights, smells, textures, and movements competing for our attention at every moment. For most people, the brain naturally filters out irrelevant information. But if you have ADHD, your brain may struggle to decide what to focus on, leaving you vulnerable to sensory overload. At Next Step Psychiatry in Lilburn, Georgia, we help patients throughout Gwinnett County and the Atlanta area understand and manage these overwhelming experiences.

What Is ADHD Overstimulation?

"ADHD overstimulation" or "sensory overload" describes what happens when your senses take in more information than your brain can process. While this isn't officially listed as an ADHD symptom in diagnostic criteria, it's a very real experience for many people with the condition.

When you have ADHD, your brain has difficulty with "attentional control"—choosing what to pay attention to and what to ignore. Instead of filtering information, your brain tries to process everything simultaneously, which can quickly become overwhelming.

Common Triggers for Overstimulation

• Sounds: Busy environments, repetitive noises like tapping pens, background conversations, or Atlanta traffic
• Visual stimuli: Bright lights, cluttered spaces, chaotic visual environments
• Touch: Certain clothing textures, tags, or unexpected physical contact
• Smells: Strong perfumes, cleaning products, or food odors
• Crowded spaces: Shopping centers like Mall of Georgia, concerts, or crowded MARTA trains
• Multitasking demands: Juggling multiple projects or priorities at once

How Does Overstimulation Feel?

Physical symptoms may include:

• Restlessness and inability to sit still
• Sudden fatigue or exhaustion
• Headaches or migraines
• Dizziness
• Sleep difficulties
• Feeling like your clothing is suddenly uncomfortable

The Flip Side: ADHD Understimulation

Interestingly, people with ADHD may also experience understimulation—when the brain doesn't receive enough input to stay engaged. This relates to how dopamine functions differently in ADHD brains. Managing ADHD often means finding the right balance between too much and too little stimulation.

10 Strategies for Managing Overstimulation

1. Identify your triggers: Keep track of situations that overwhelm you so you can plan ahead.
2. Control your environment: Use noise-canceling headphones, adjust lighting, or work from quieter spaces when possible.
3. Maintain a sleep schedule: A well-rested brain handles stimulation better.
4. Create routines: Predictable schedules reduce unexpected sensory demands.
5. Build in cool-down time: Schedule breaks throughout your day to decompress.
6. Adapt triggering environments: Request accommodations at work or school if needed.
7. Find safe spaces: Identify quiet spots you can retreat to—whether at the office, home, or public places around Lilburn.
8. Practice self-soothing: Deep breathing, meditation, or gentle movement can help regulate your nervous system.
9. Build a support network: Share your challenges with understanding friends, family, or coworkers.
10. Work with a professional: A psychiatrist can help you develop personalized coping strategies and determine if medication might help.

Treatment Options

While overstimulation can't be "cured," it can be effectively managed. Treatment options may include:

• ADHD medication: Proper medication management can improve overall attention regulation
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): Helps address negative thought patterns and emotional responses to overstimulation
• Sensory integration therapy: Gradually builds tolerance to triggering stimuli
• Occupational therapy: Creates personalized "sensory diets" to balance stimulation levels

Get Support for ADHD in Gwinnett County

If you're experiencing overstimulation that's affecting your daily life, our team at Next Step Psychiatry can help. Dr. Aneel Ursani and Fathima Chowdhury, PA-C provide comprehensive ADHD evaluations and treatment for adults and adolescents throughout the Metro Atlanta area.

This article is for educational purposes only. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call 911 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988.