Overstimulation is when the brain becomes bombarded with information. This makes it difficult for a person to adequately process information. Usually, the brain responds to sensory inputs. The brain does the job of processing sounds and feelings among others. It selects what to react to and what not to. In a situation where it’s impossible to filter, the person experiences overstimulation. A sensory breakdown or overload is caused by the intensity of the sensory nerves. This includes loud noises, crowded areas, an increase in temperature, and blinding lights.
Causes And Signs Of Overstimulation
Signs of overstimulation may not be glaring at first. But as time goes by, if ignored, it becomes worse. The common pattern among people suffering from overstimulation is:
- Insomnia
- Feeling restless all of a sudden
- Getting irritable
- Easily distracted
- Withdrawal syndrome
- Feeling overwhelmed with little details
While overstimulation can happen to anyone, some people often experience it. Overstimulation mostly occurs in people with PTSD, and Tourette Syndrome. Autistic patients and individuals with anxiety disorders are also at risk. So what influences such an experience?
The Environment
This would be classified as environmental overstimulation. It means that a person’s sense organs react intensely to their surroundings. A crowded room and foods with intense temperatures (hot/cold) can cause overstimulation.
Personal Causes
Overstimulation would occur based on a person’s habits or lifestyle. Having trouble sleeping, and regular thinking can hurt the brain. Other personal factors include an insufficient diet and being oversensitive.
Modern Technology
While technology has improved the quality of life, it has its downsides. Using a mobile device just before bed and getting immersed are ways to be overstimulated. Being addicted to the internet also leads the brain to process too much information at once. Additionally using multiple devices even for work purposes can influence overstimulation.
5 Ways To Prevent Overstimulation
This state is completely avoidable. See different ways below:
Understand The Cause
Problems are half solved once the root is unearthed. Since the goal is to correct overstimulation, look out for why it’s happening. Once the cause is recognized, try to avoid it. For people affected by crowds, skip attending concerts.
Be Mindful
Since overthinking is one of the leading causes, practice mindfulness. Control thoughts, rather than worry about the future, live in the present. To do that effectively, try out meditation. By doing yoga, exercising, and creative thinking, the chances of overstimulation decrease.
Relax The Brain
Leave the computer screens and log off the internet for some time. That information can always wait for another time. Don’t overwork the brain by stressing the eyes. One better way to achieve this is by replacing screen time with nature-time. Feed on the lush green trees and calm lake waters. Gregory Bratman, an assistant professor, underscores nature’s effects on humans. He claimed that being in contact with nature and a green environment positively affects the brain.
Speak To Someone If You Are Experiencing Overstimulation
Rather than being overwhelmed by problems, find a trusted person to share them with. It could be a friend, sibling, or partner. This would limit the amount of time spent on worrying. If there is no one around then try seeing a professional. Therapy is a great way to get back on track after overstimulation.
Practice Self Love
Getting used to healthy routines like exercising, and meditation helps to soothe the nervous system. Get immersed in these activities. Other ways to show self-love are by having proper rest and being positive.
Final Note
According to research, 5% to 16.5% of the world’s population suffer from overstimulation. Whether mild or intense, overstimulation is never a death sentence. It can be managed by consciousness to avoid the cause. Plus constant practice to shake off.
#Clique, what are your thoughts?
