Sound sensory overload


Sensory overload: Symptoms, causes, and treatment

Sensory overload is the overstimulation of one or more of the body’s five senses. These are touch, sight, hearing, smell, and taste.

Though sensory overload can affect anyone, it commonly occurs in autistic people, and those with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), sensory processing disorder, and certain other conditions.

Keep reading to learn more about sensory overload, including its symptoms, causes, and potential treatments.

Sensory overload happens when one or more of the body’s five senses become overwhelmed. It can happen, for example, in a crowded restaurant, when the radio is too loud, or when a passerby is wearing a strongly scented perfume.

In these situations, the brain receives too much information to be able to process it properly. Sensory overload leads to feelings of discomfort that range from mild to intense.

Everyone experiences sensory overload at some point in their lives. Some children and adults, however, experience it regularly. For these individuals, everyday situations can be challenging.

For them, going to the school or office cafeteria can lead to sensory overload. The sounds of people talking loudly, strong smells of food, and flickering fluorescent lights can all trigger feelings of being overwhelmed and uncomfortable.

What sensory overload feels like can vary from one person to another. Some people may be more sensitive to sound, for example, while others may have issues with different textures.

Common symptoms include:

  • inability to ignore loud sounds, strong smells, or other types of sensory input
  • a sense of discomfort
  • anxiety and fear
  • extreme sensitivity to clothing or other textures
  • feeling overwhelmed or agitated
  • irritability
  • loss of focus
  • restlessness
  • stress
  • insomnia

In children, the following signs can indicate sensory overload:

  • anxiety, irritability, and restlessness
  • avoiding specific places or situations
  • closing the eyes
  • covering the face
  • crying
  • placing the hands over the ears
  • the inability to converse with others or connect with them
  • running away from specific places or situations

Sensory overload occurs when the brain struggles to interpret, prioritize, or otherwise process sensory inputs. It then communicates to the body that it is time to escape these sensory inputs. This message causes feelings of discomfort and panic.

In some people who experience sensory overload regularly, such as those with a sensory processing disorder, there may be a biological basis for these processing problems.

One study indicates that children with sensory processing disorder have quantifiable differences in their brain structure. The researchers suggest that this points to a biological basis for sensory processing problems.

However, not everyone who experiences sensory overload will have these structural differences.

Sensory overload in children occurs fairly commonly. A 2018 report states that 1 in every 6 children has sensory processing difficulties. In certain groups, the prevalence ranges from 80% to 100%. These groups include children with:

  • autism spectrum disorder
  • fetal alcohol syndrome
  • Down syndrome

Sensory overload in children can be difficult to recognize, especially if there is no co-occurring condition.

Parents and caregivers may attribute the symptoms to “bad behavior” because it can cause children to run away from situations, have a meltdown that results in a tantrum, or appear irritable and restless.

In children who do not have a related condition, sensory overload may simply occur because the brain is still developing.

Parents and caregivers should learn to recognize both the triggers and the signs and symptoms of sensory overload in children. Swift action can reduce the impact on the child and help manage their reactions.

Conditions that have an association with sensory overload include:

Autism

Sensory overload and autism can sometimes go hand in hand. This is because autistic people commonly perceive sensory input differently.

When an autistic person becomes overwhelmed from sensory overload, they may experience a meltdown. This may involve crying and shouting, running away, or not responding to stimuli from the environment.

In 2013, the American Psychiatric Association added sensitivity to sensory input to the list of diagnostic criteria for autism.

Learn more about autism here.

ADHD

Sensory overload and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can also go together. In people with ADHD, sensory inputs compete for attention in the brain, which may trigger sensory overload.

Understood.org, a nonprofit organization, suggests that certain types of sensory information, such as the texture of food or sensation of clothing, are more likely to cause sensory overload in those with ADHD.

Learn more about ADHD here.

PTSD

People experiencing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can become hypersensitive to their surroundings, which can lead to sensory overload. This means that sensory overload and PTSD can often co-exist. People who have PTSD have usually experienced one or more traumatic events. The sensory overload usually occurs in response to certain triggers that remind the person of this trauma.

Learn more about PTSD here.

Sensory processing disorder

Sensory processing disorder (SPD) is a neurological disorder that occurs when a person finds it difficult to respond to sensory input. Generally, there are two different types of the condition.

Hypersensitivity is when a person is overly sensitive to things like smells, sounds, tastes, or textures. A person may try to avoid these sensory experiences because they are too overwhelming.

Hyposensitivity, which is also known as sensory seeking, is when a person looks for more sensory stimulation, especially physical touch or pressure.

Some people can have a mix of both types, and both children and adults can have SPD. However, doctors more commonly diagnose children with SPD than adults.

Other conditions

People with some other conditions may be more likely to experience sensory overload than the general population. These other conditions include:

  • chronic fatigue syndrome
  • fibromyalgia
  • multiple sclerosis (MS)
  • Tourette’s syndrome

As sensory overload is not an official disorder, it is not possible to get a formal diagnosis.

However, many doctors and healthcare professionals recognize sensory overload, especially in autistic people and those who have ADHD and other related conditions.

Before speaking to a doctor about sensory overload, it can be helpful for a person to keep a diary of any sensory overload signs, symptoms, and triggers.

Triggers can include specific stimuli, such as loud sounds and bright lights, as well as mental and physical factors such as depression and dehydration.

The doctor will probably ask several questions about the triggers and events surrounding episodes of sensory overload. In doing this, they hope to understand more fully how a person experiences sensory overload.

A doctor may refer a child with suspected sensory overload to a developmental pediatrician or an occupational therapist for further evaluation and treatment.

There is no specific treatment for sensory overload. Generally, the aim is to help people dealing with sensory overloads be able to plan for them and manage their reactions.

Occupational therapy may be helpful for children who experience sensory overload. Occupational therapists can help people make changes to their environment to minimize the frequency or severity of sensory overload.

Medications for co-occurring conditions may also reduce sensory overload.

In autistic people, for example, the medication aripiprazole (Abilify) may be helpful.

Many people can manage episodes of sensory overload with specific techniques and home care. Individuals can try:

  • keeping a diary of signs, symptoms, and triggers of sensory overload
  • avoiding the triggers of sensory overloads, such as loud concerts or events with flashing lights, where possible
  • asking others to help reduce sensory inputs, such as by turning down bright lights or opening a window when strong smells are present
  • identifying safe spaces to escape to when a sensory overload occurs at school, work, or other venues
  • staying near the exit when at a concert or party so that it is easy to leave if necessary
  • talking to teachers, colleagues, friends, and others about sensory overload and asking for their support in reducing sensory inputs
  • taking regular breaks, and getting enough rest and sleep
  • drinking lots of water and eating a balanced diet

Children

When it comes to children with sensory overload, parents and caregivers can:

  • help their child avoid triggering situations
  • give the child the words to explain what is happening and how it feels
  • validate the child’s feelings and experiences
  • inform teachers of the possibility of sensory overload and ask for their support
  • seek help from a doctor, occupational therapist, or another specialist

Sensory overload can happen to anyone, but it is more common in autistic people and people with ADHD, PTSD, and certain other conditions.

It causes feelings of discomfort and being overwhelmed. Moving away from sources of sensory input, such as loud sounds or strong smells, can reduce these feelings.

People who experience regular episodes of sensory overload should see their doctor. A doctor can provide support and recommend treatments or management techniques. They can also determine whether there is a co-occurring condition that requires treatment.

Sensory overload: Symptoms, causes, and treatment

Sensory overload is the overstimulation of one or more of the body’s five senses. These are touch, sight, hearing, smell, and taste.

Though sensory overload can affect anyone, it commonly occurs in autistic people, and those with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), sensory processing disorder, and certain other conditions.

Keep reading to learn more about sensory overload, including its symptoms, causes, and potential treatments.

Sensory overload happens when one or more of the body’s five senses become overwhelmed. It can happen, for example, in a crowded restaurant, when the radio is too loud, or when a passerby is wearing a strongly scented perfume.

In these situations, the brain receives too much information to be able to process it properly. Sensory overload leads to feelings of discomfort that range from mild to intense.

Everyone experiences sensory overload at some point in their lives. Some children and adults, however, experience it regularly. For these individuals, everyday situations can be challenging.

For them, going to the school or office cafeteria can lead to sensory overload. The sounds of people talking loudly, strong smells of food, and flickering fluorescent lights can all trigger feelings of being overwhelmed and uncomfortable.

What sensory overload feels like can vary from one person to another. Some people may be more sensitive to sound, for example, while others may have issues with different textures.

Common symptoms include:

  • inability to ignore loud sounds, strong smells, or other types of sensory input
  • a sense of discomfort
  • anxiety and fear
  • extreme sensitivity to clothing or other textures
  • feeling overwhelmed or agitated
  • irritability
  • loss of focus
  • restlessness
  • stress
  • insomnia

In children, the following signs can indicate sensory overload:

  • anxiety, irritability, and restlessness
  • avoiding specific places or situations
  • closing the eyes
  • covering the face
  • crying
  • placing the hands over the ears
  • the inability to converse with others or connect with them
  • running away from specific places or situations

Sensory overload occurs when the brain struggles to interpret, prioritize, or otherwise process sensory inputs. It then communicates to the body that it is time to escape these sensory inputs. This message causes feelings of discomfort and panic.

In some people who experience sensory overload regularly, such as those with a sensory processing disorder, there may be a biological basis for these processing problems.

One study indicates that children with sensory processing disorder have quantifiable differences in their brain structure. The researchers suggest that this points to a biological basis for sensory processing problems.

However, not everyone who experiences sensory overload will have these structural differences.

Sensory overload in children occurs fairly commonly. A 2018 report states that 1 in every 6 children has sensory processing difficulties. In certain groups, the prevalence ranges from 80% to 100%. These groups include children with:

  • autism spectrum disorder
  • fetal alcohol syndrome
  • Down syndrome

Sensory overload in children can be difficult to recognize, especially if there is no co-occurring condition.

Parents and caregivers may attribute the symptoms to “bad behavior” because it can cause children to run away from situations, have a meltdown that results in a tantrum, or appear irritable and restless.

In children who do not have a related condition, sensory overload may simply occur because the brain is still developing.

Parents and caregivers should learn to recognize both the triggers and the signs and symptoms of sensory overload in children. Swift action can reduce the impact on the child and help manage their reactions.

Conditions that have an association with sensory overload include:

Autism

Sensory overload and autism can sometimes go hand in hand. This is because autistic people commonly perceive sensory input differently.

When an autistic person becomes overwhelmed from sensory overload, they may experience a meltdown. This may involve crying and shouting, running away, or not responding to stimuli from the environment.

In 2013, the American Psychiatric Association added sensitivity to sensory input to the list of diagnostic criteria for autism.

Learn more about autism here.

ADHD

Sensory overload and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can also go together. In people with ADHD, sensory inputs compete for attention in the brain, which may trigger sensory overload.

Understood.org, a nonprofit organization, suggests that certain types of sensory information, such as the texture of food or sensation of clothing, are more likely to cause sensory overload in those with ADHD.

Learn more about ADHD here.

PTSD

People experiencing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can become hypersensitive to their surroundings, which can lead to sensory overload. This means that sensory overload and PTSD can often co-exist. People who have PTSD have usually experienced one or more traumatic events. The sensory overload usually occurs in response to certain triggers that remind the person of this trauma.

Learn more about PTSD here.

Sensory processing disorder

Sensory processing disorder (SPD) is a neurological disorder that occurs when a person finds it difficult to respond to sensory input. Generally, there are two different types of the condition.

Hypersensitivity is when a person is overly sensitive to things like smells, sounds, tastes, or textures. A person may try to avoid these sensory experiences because they are too overwhelming.

Hyposensitivity, which is also known as sensory seeking, is when a person looks for more sensory stimulation, especially physical touch or pressure.

Some people can have a mix of both types, and both children and adults can have SPD. However, doctors more commonly diagnose children with SPD than adults.

Other conditions

People with some other conditions may be more likely to experience sensory overload than the general population. These other conditions include:

  • chronic fatigue syndrome
  • fibromyalgia
  • multiple sclerosis (MS)
  • Tourette’s syndrome

As sensory overload is not an official disorder, it is not possible to get a formal diagnosis.

However, many doctors and healthcare professionals recognize sensory overload, especially in autistic people and those who have ADHD and other related conditions.

Before speaking to a doctor about sensory overload, it can be helpful for a person to keep a diary of any sensory overload signs, symptoms, and triggers.

Triggers can include specific stimuli, such as loud sounds and bright lights, as well as mental and physical factors such as depression and dehydration.

The doctor will probably ask several questions about the triggers and events surrounding episodes of sensory overload. In doing this, they hope to understand more fully how a person experiences sensory overload.

A doctor may refer a child with suspected sensory overload to a developmental pediatrician or an occupational therapist for further evaluation and treatment.

There is no specific treatment for sensory overload. Generally, the aim is to help people dealing with sensory overloads be able to plan for them and manage their reactions.

Occupational therapy may be helpful for children who experience sensory overload. Occupational therapists can help people make changes to their environment to minimize the frequency or severity of sensory overload.

Medications for co-occurring conditions may also reduce sensory overload.

In autistic people, for example, the medication aripiprazole (Abilify) may be helpful.

Many people can manage episodes of sensory overload with specific techniques and home care. Individuals can try:

  • keeping a diary of signs, symptoms, and triggers of sensory overload
  • avoiding the triggers of sensory overloads, such as loud concerts or events with flashing lights, where possible
  • asking others to help reduce sensory inputs, such as by turning down bright lights or opening a window when strong smells are present
  • identifying safe spaces to escape to when a sensory overload occurs at school, work, or other venues
  • staying near the exit when at a concert or party so that it is easy to leave if necessary
  • talking to teachers, colleagues, friends, and others about sensory overload and asking for their support in reducing sensory inputs
  • taking regular breaks, and getting enough rest and sleep
  • drinking lots of water and eating a balanced diet

Children

When it comes to children with sensory overload, parents and caregivers can:

  • help their child avoid triggering situations
  • give the child the words to explain what is happening and how it feels
  • validate the child’s feelings and experiences
  • inform teachers of the possibility of sensory overload and ask for their support
  • seek help from a doctor, occupational therapist, or another specialist

Sensory overload can happen to anyone, but it is more common in autistic people and people with ADHD, PTSD, and certain other conditions.

It causes feelings of discomfort and being overwhelmed. Moving away from sources of sensory input, such as loud sounds or strong smells, can reduce these feelings.

People who experience regular episodes of sensory overload should see their doctor. A doctor can provide support and recommend treatments or management techniques. They can also determine whether there is a co-occurring condition that requires treatment.

How can stress from sensory overload be prevented?

11/07/13


Five tips to reduce anxiety associated with sensory problems for autism

Author: Jenny David Davide-Rivera
Translation: Tamara Solomatina
Source: Autism.answers .com

Sensory problems are common in people with autism spectrum disorders. Many children and adults with autism are overly sensitive to lights, sounds, tastes, touch, and smells. The most common things that can trigger sensory overload in your child are noisy environments, bright lights or sunlight, scratchy or scratchy clothing. There are a few things you can use or take with you to be ready to help your child get used to the environment. nine0003

Did you know?

Many of the breakdowns that people with autism spectrum disorders suffer from are actually caused by nervous system overexcitation or sensory overload. Sometimes a few simple precautions can help reduce the level of overload and prevent a subsequent nervous breakdown.

Use ear plugs or earmuffs

At home, at school or in a noisy supermarket, the sounds that surround your child at the same time can completely overwhelm him. It is often difficult for autistic people with hearing problems (sound sensitivity) to block out background noises that normal people don't even notice. This overwhelming sonic attack can cause overdrive or stall. nine0003

The use of ear plugs or earmuffs, especially outside the home where there are a lot of loud noises, can calm and reduce nervous system arousal and help your child cope better with the environment.

Get a pair of sunglasses ready

Another common problem children and adults with autism experience is sensitivity to light. Fluorescent lighting is particularly intrusive due to both the flickering flashes of light and the buzzing sounds that accompany it. It is becoming a problem in large stores, supermarkets and many schools. The external environment can also cause concern. Often the sunlight can be too bright, making it hard to see and making the whole world look hazy. A pair (or an extra pair) of sunglasses that can be worn both outdoors and indoors is especially helpful in these situations. Research has shown that pink-tinted sunglasses are the most beneficial for people with autism spectrum disorders, followed by brown-tinted sunglasses. nine0003

Dress your child in soft clothing and remove any tags from clothing.

Tactile problems (sensitivity to touch) are often seen in children with autism. Washing all new clothes before putting them on, using a fabric-softening fabric softener, and removing any tags from the clothes can reduce your child's sensitivity to the fabric.

Use confident touch

Autistic children often dislike being touched, especially intolerance to light skin touches. Using firm touch, firm hugs, and weighted blankets can reduce their discomfort. nine0003

"Toys" for self-stimulation

When autistic children with sensory problems experience overload or stress, they often switch to "stims" or self-stimulating behaviors. Bringing or giving them stimulating toys, such as soft balls (similar to stress balls), their favorite toys, or a piece of cloth that they can play with, will help reduce arousal and provide them with a healthy and relaxing way to de-stress. nine0003

Sensory overload often causes problems for people with autism spectrum disorders. Adults with autism usually rank sensory issues at the top of their list of difficulties they experience in daily life and work. Both children and adults alike can experience sensory overload, especially in public places when the environment becomes overwhelming. Just a few advance precautions can make the world around you more comfortable for your child. nine0003

Thanks to Tamara Solomatina for the translation.

Parenting children with autism, Sensory and motor skills

Features of sensory development of children with ASD

  1. Sensory overload recognition. Different people experience overload in different ways. It can be expressed in panic attacks, the person may become overly active, withdraw into himself or lose control (this resembles a fit of anger, but is not directed to any specific goal). nine0003

  2. Visual stimulation reduction . To reduce visual stimulation, reduce the amount of objects on the walls and ceiling. Put small items in cupboards or boxes and label the boxes accordingly.

  3. Noise reduction. Audio overload can be caused by external noises (for example, if someone is talking loudly nearby) that interferes with concentration on something else. Sometimes the noise can seem too loud and annoying. To avoid sound overload, cover an open door or window that is making noise. Turn down or turn off distracting music or move to a quieter place. Minimize verbal communication and conversations. If the noise becomes too intrusive, you can use earplugs, headphones. If you are interacting with someone who is prone to audio overload, try to ask simple questions that require a yes or no answer, rather than questions that require long answers. Simple questions are easier to answer, including gestures. nine0003

4. Reduced tactile stimulation. In tactile overload, a person may avoid touching and hugging. It is not uncommon for people who are prone to sensory overload to be extremely sensitive to touch, and touch, or even anticipation of it, can increase the overload. Tactile sensitivity can manifest itself in the form of increased sensitivity of the skin to clothing (in this case, it is better to use soft fabrics), when touching certain types of surfaces, or an increased reaction to temperature. Determine what you like to touch and what causes a negative reaction. Buy clothes that you feel comfortable in. If a loved one or friend is prone to sensory overload, they may sometimes mention that touch is unpleasant to them and try to avoid it. In this case, try not to touch this person. When communicating with a person who has increased tactile sensitivity, be sure to warn before touching him, try to be in front of him and not approach unnoticed from behind. To overcome increased tactile sensitivity, consult with an occupational therapist. nine0003

5. Odor control. Some scents and smells may be too strong. Unlike visual images, when it is enough to close your eyes, you cannot plug your nose to get rid of smells. If you are sensitive to smells, use unscented shampoos and other detergents and cleaners.

6. Sensory break. one can feel sensory overload when surrounded by a large number of people or among children. Sometimes, such as at a family event or work meeting, these situations are unavoidable. However, you can give yourself a short break to take a break from the overload. Trying to "collect your will into a fist" and endure will only worsen the situation, and you will need more time to recover. A break will help to avoid too high overloads, which can lead to sad consequences, to relax and gain strength. Respond to your feelings in time - this will help you cope with the situation more easily. If you're in a public place, excuse yourself and say you need to go to the restroom, or say you want to get some fresh air and leave for a few minutes. If you are at home, try to lie down in a secluded place and take a break. If people try to follow you, say that you need to be alone. nine0003

It is necessary to know your limits and avoid too much testing, but at the same time do not limit yourself too much , as this can make life boring. Make sure that your basic needs are met, as factors such as hunger, exhaustion, loneliness and physical pain can affect the critical stimulation threshold. At the same time, don't push yourself too hard.

7. Establishing certain boundaries. If you encounter situations that can cause sensory overload, you need to set appropriate limits for yourself. For example, if loud noises annoy you, visit restaurants and shops during relatively quiet times, and not during peak hours when there are a lot of people. You can limit the amount of time you spend in front of the TV or the computer, or see your friends and family less often. If you have a large event coming up, prepare ahead of time to make it as easy as possible to reschedule it. It may be worth limiting communication with others. If long conversations are boring for you, apologize politely and try to end the lengthy conversation. If you are raising a child, watch his behavior and make sure he does not sit too long in front of the TV or computer, as this can lead to sensory overload. nine0003

8. Recuperation. It can take anywhere from a couple of minutes to several hours to fully recover from sensory overload. If the fight-or-flight mechanism has been activated, you will most likely feel very tired after overloading. If possible, try to reduce the level of subsequent stress as well. It is often best to be alone for this.

9. “Sensory Diet” (for autism). The sensory diet consists in a more gentle and habitual supply of sensory information, which helps the human nervous system to perceive the world around us in a more organized and orderly manner. Such a diet provides for communication with other people and the environment, as well as various activities and entertainment during the time of day allotted for them. Treat the sensory diet as if it were a healthy and balanced diet. A person should receive the nutrients he needs from various foods, and it is not recommended to consume too much or too little of one or another type of food, as this can adversely affect the formation and functioning of the body. With a sensory diet, a person should receive well-balanced information from all the senses. For example, if a person is experiencing excessive auditory stimulation, one can limit verbal contact and use more visual sources of information, spend more time in quiet places, and use earplugs if necessary. However, it is also necessary to maintain some sound stimulation - for example, to provide a person with the opportunity to listen to his favorite music. Minimize unnecessary sensory input: limit the amount of visual materials, allow the person to use headphones or ear plugs, dress them in comfortable clothes, use unscented detergents, and so on. The purpose of the sensory diet is to calm the person and, if possible, normalize the reaction to sensory stimuli, teach him to control his impulses and emotions, and increase productivity. nine0003

10. Refraining from manifestations of irritation and aggression (with autism). Sometimes people who experience sensory overload become physically or verbally aggressive. Don't take it personally. This reaction is caused by panic, not a negative attitude towards you. Most often, physical aggression happens because a person panics when you try to touch him, restrict his freedom of movement, or block his escape route. Never try to grab him or control his behavior. In fact, people who experience sensory overload rarely cause serious harm to those around them. A panicked person does not intend to harm you, he only wants to get out of this situation. nine0003

11. Pay attention to vestibular signs (in autism). When sensory overload occurs, a person with autism may have problems with balance and coordination. He may be motion sick, may lose balance and have problems with hand-eye coordination. If the person seems to be experiencing sensory overload or being too passive, try to slow down your movements and change your position slowly and carefully (for example, when you get up from a chair). nine0003

12. Early intervention. Sometimes a person does not understand what causes the problems they are experiencing, and may remain in an unsafe place for too long or try to overcome overloads. This only makes the situation worse. Try to come to the rescue as soon as you notice that someone is depressed and stressed, and help them get to a quieter place and calm down.

13. Empathy and understanding. A person close to you is experiencing stress and confusion, and your support can help him calm down and come to his senses. Show sympathy, love and willingness to help. Remember that people experience sensory overload against their will. Do not judge the person experiencing problems, as this can make the situation worse. nine0003

Take the person to a quieter place. The quickest way to get rid of sensory overload is often to change the environment. Consider whether you can take the person outside or to a quieter place. Ask him to follow you and offer to take his hand if he is okay with touching.

Make your environment more welcoming. Dim bright lights, turn down music, and ask others to step aside to give your loved one more space. An overloaded person may be confused by the looks of others, it may seem to him that they are staring at him. nine0003

Ask the person if they can be touched. In sensory overload, people have difficulty understanding what is happening and may mistake the touch as aggression on your part. Find out first if the person can be touched and let them know in advance what you intend to do so that they have the opportunity to refuse. For example, say: “I would like to take your hand and take you out of here” or “Do you mind if I hug you?”

  • Overwhelmed people can sometimes be soothed with a firm hug or a gentle back and shoulder massage. In other cases, touching only makes the situation worse. Find out if you can touch the person, and don't be upset if they say "no" - it's nothing personal. nine0003

  • Do not put a person in a hopeless situation and do not block his path. In the heat of the moment, he may panic and resort to physical violence, such as pushing you away in order to run out the door.

Ask simple yes or no questions. Open-ended questions are more difficult to perceive, and if a person's brain is already overloaded, he is not able to give a conscious answer. At the same time, in response to a closed question, a person may simply nod or shake his head in the negative. nine0003

Try to meet the needs of the person. Your loved one may need a glass of water, a break, or a change of activities. Think about how you can help him and do it.

  • If you care about another person, it is easy to get frustrated in case of problems, but remember that your ward is not able to behave differently, and he needs your help.

  • If you notice that someone is trying to cope with overload in ways that could harm them, tell those who know what to do (for example, parents or a doctor). Attempts to grab a person may cause him to panic, and he will try to break free, which is not safe for both of you. Your doctor can help you develop a treatment plan that may help manage the risky behavior. nine0003

Encourage the person to try to cope with overload on their own. He may try rocking back and forth, wrapping himself in a warm blanket, humming his favorite song, or asking you to give him a massage. It's okay if such behavior looks a little strange and inappropriate for his age - the main thing is that this helps him to be distracted and calm down. If you know something has a calming effect on the overwhelmed person (like their favorite plush toy), bring the item and put it where they can reach it. If desired, he will take this thing. nine0003

Sensory Diet Plan for Children with ASD. Recommendations for parents.

Steps

Suggestions

Rationale

Ways to organize space

Morning at home

Foot and back massage

Proprioceptive input

Proprioceptive input pillow

Flat bed

Morning exercise.

exercises may include chair push-off, chair/body squeeze, stretching of elastic bands, exercises with a hand expander, tilts based on the upper limbs, weighted. nine0003

stools, elastic harnesses, expander, weighted clothing (vest)

Morning toilet

Hygienic norms, tactile input

VIBRACHT, VIBRODROWERS

Morning SPU 9000 music and dressing in kindergarten according to the tempo of music

Auditory input,

Proprioceptive input

Sound recordings with different tempos.

Road to kindergarten. Game "What do I hear?" or "Pull-Push"

Surrounding reality, cart, sled or stroller

After kindergarten

Road home and walk

Push-Pull game

Cooking Dinner Sandbox Games

Proprioceptive input

Vestibular input

Tactile input

Trolley or bag.

Carousel swing.

Sand molds

In the evening at home

Preparing dinner. Table setting.

Tactile input

Tactile input

Taste input

Vestibular input

Tableware.

Napkins.

Quiet background music.

Hour of Games and Zeels:

Game “Soap bubbles”

“Drive on the blanket”

“Balls-jumpers”

“Automotive tunnel”

jumps on the trampoline

Tact Vestibular Issue

9,000

Proprioceptive input

Necessary equipment for play.

Foot massage. Games "Sandwich", "Pancakes-pancakes". Finger gymnastics

Proprioceptive input

Smooth surface.


Learn more