Sansebelastning

Sansebelastning, often translated as sensory overload, refers to a state where an individual experiences an overwhelming amount of sensory input. This can manifest as too much light, sound, touch, taste, or smell, or a combination of these. For some, certain environments or situations may trigger this overwhelming response more readily than for others.

The impact of sansebelastning can vary greatly. Individuals may experience heightened anxiety, distress, difficulty concentrating, irritability, or even physical symptoms such as nausea or headaches. In more extreme cases, it can lead to a shutdown, where a person becomes unresponsive as a coping mechanism.

While not a formal medical diagnosis itself, sansebelastning is a common experience for individuals with certain neurodevelopmental conditions, such as autism spectrum disorder, and other sensory processing sensitivities. It can also occur in individuals without diagnosed conditions, particularly in highly stimulating environments. Understanding and managing sansebelastning often involves identifying triggers, creating sensory-friendly spaces, and developing coping strategies to regulate sensory input.