The holiday season is, without a doubt, one of the most cherished times of the year. It's synonymous with family gatherings, festive decorations, delicious food, and a general air of merriment. However, for individuals with sensory processing issues, such as those with autism, ADHD, or other neurological conditions, the holiday season can also bring an onslaught of sensory overload.
Sensory overload occurs when one or more of the body's senses experiences over-stimulation from the environment. The lights, sounds, smells, and social interactions common during the holidays can all contribute to this. In this blog post, we'll explore sensory overload during the holiday season and discuss strategies for managing it effectively.
Understanding Sensory Overload
Sensory overload can happen to anyone, not just people with sensory processing disorders. It can sometimes be compared to a traffic jam in your brain. When too much information is sent to the brain at once, it can't process it all. This can lead to feelings of stress, anxiety, and physical discomfort.
During the holiday season, sensory overload can result from:
- Visual Stimulation: Bright lights, flashing decorations, colorful displays, and crowded spaces
- Auditory Stimulation: Loud music, multiple conversations happening at once, fireworks, and festive sounds
- Olfactory and Gustatory Stimulation: Strong smells from food, pine trees, candles, and new products, and tastes from a variety of holiday foods
- Tactile Stimulation: Unfamiliar or uncomfortable clothing, hugs and touch from others, different textures of decorations
Managing Sensory Overload During the Holidays
There are strategies to help manage sensory overload during the holiday season. Here are some suggestions:
1. Plan Ahead: If you or a family member are prone to sensory overload, discuss this with your family or hosts ahead of time. Let them know what specific triggers might cause discomfort, so they can assist in accommodating needs.
2. Take Breaks: If you're at a gathering or event, don't hesitate to step outside or find a quiet place if you're feeling overwhelmed. Short, frequent breaks can help to manage sensory input.
3. Use Sensory Tools: Noise-cancelling headphones, fidget tools, weighted blankets, or calming scents can help to manage sensory overload.
4. Practice Mindfulness and Breathing Exercises: Techniques such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or grounding exercises can help to calm the nervous system.
Creating a Sensory-Friendly Holiday Environment
If you're hosting a holiday event, consider these strategies to create a more sensory-friendly environment:
- Offer a Quiet Space: Provide a designated quiet area where guests can go to escape from the noise and lights.
- Limit Decorations: Too many decorations, especially flashing or brightly colored ones, can be overwhelming. Opt for simple, low-key decor.
- Keep the Volume Down: Background music is a holiday staple, but keeping the volume low allows for easier conversations and less auditory overload.
- Offer a Variety of Foods: Some people may be sensitive to certain tastes or textures. Offering a variety of foods can ensure there's something everyone can enjoy.
Conclusion
While the holiday season can be challenging for those who experience sensory overload, it's important to remember that with understanding, patience, and a few adjustments, everyone can enjoy the festivities. By being mindful of potential sensory challenges, we can create a more inclusive environment that allows us all to celebrate the holiday season comfortably and joyfully.
With thankfulness ❤️,
Kendra-Autism Mom Xtraordinaire
Thanks for sharing.
Pulpit Wife
Just shared your article about sensory overload with my mom and my Aunt) one of her son is on the spectrum. So thank you 😊 for writing this article and sharing your knowledge.
Happy Thanksgiving 🦃🍁🍽