ADHD Sensory Overload: A Practical Guide for Australians

What is ADHD sensory overload?

Does ADHD have sensory issues? Some people with ADHD describe sensory difficulties and others do not, and everyone’s pattern is different. Around 6-8% of children and 3-5% of adults in Australia have ADHD, according to the Australian ADHD Guideline GP factsheet.

• Overload is a state, not a flaw: it describes feeling flooded by more sensory or emotional information than feels manageable.
• How ADHD is assessed: under DSM-5 there are 9 inattentive and 9 hyperactive-impulsive symptoms, and AADPA’s checklist requires evidence of symptoms before age 12 years, for at least 6 months, causing impairment in at least two settings (ADHD Diagnosis Checklist).
• Other possible causes: if you are unsure whether sensitivities relate to ADHD, autism, anxiety or something else, a qualified professional can help.
• Is sensory overload a symptom of ADHD? A clinician assesses the DSM-5 symptoms and can explain how sensory experiences fit with them for you.
• Sensitivities vary: one person may struggle with noise, another with light, touch, smell or crowded shops.

ADHD overwhelm and shutting down

ADHD overwhelm builds when too many demands, decisions or sensations pile up. Some people react with big feelings, and others go quiet.

• Do people with ADHD get overwhelmed easily? Experiences vary. The Australian ADHD Guideline states emotion regulation difficulties affect up to 40-50% of children with ADHD (About ADHD), and our guide to ADHD emotional dysregulation explains more.

ADHD and noise sensitivity, misophonia and light sensitivity

Noise, light and other triggers affect people in different ways.

• ADHD and noise sensitivity: some people find background chatter, appliances or sudden sounds hard to tune out, and quiet spaces or headphones are options.
• Is misophonia linked to ADHD? Misophonia is a strong reaction to specific sounds such as chewing or tapping.
• Misophonia and ADHD: your GP, a psychologist or an audiologist can help you understand what is going on for you.
• ADHD light sensitivity: bright, flickering or fluorescent lights can feel tiring, and softer lighting, sunglasses or a cap may reduce strain.
• ADHD hypersensitivity to touch or smell: some people find tags, seams, strong perfumes or food textures hard to tolerate, and comfortable clothes or fragrance-free products are options.

ADHD justice sensitivity and emotional overwhelm

Justice sensitivity is a strong reaction to things that feel unfair, and some people with ADHD describe it.

• Notice the build-up: a feeling of being treated unfairly can escalate quickly when you are already tired or stressed.
• Give a pause before responding: a few minutes of quiet or a short walk can help a strong feeling settle.
• Name the feeling: simple words such as “I feel upset because this seems unfair” help others understand.
• Link to criticism: our guide to RSD and ADHD explains why some people react strongly to rejection.
• Look for patterns: a diary of triggers, times and what helped gives clues for planning.

TQN Care support workers help with personal care, community access, respite and help around the home across Sydney, Melbourne and surrounding areas (NSW & VIC). Tell us what you need and we will call you back.

Calming tools: sensory swing, body sock and sensory room for ADHD

Some families use sensory equipment at home. These tools are not a treatment for ADHD, so ask an occupational therapist whether any of them suits you or your child, and talk to your GP or paediatrician about ADHD supports.

• Ask an occupational therapist before buying costly equipment. For wider information on sensory needs, see our guide to sensory disability and sensory overload in autism.

Everyday strategies for ADHD sensory overload

These ideas can be used at home, school or work, and an occupational therapist can help tailor them.

1. 1Spot the early signs. Notice the first signals, such as rising voice, fidgeting or covering ears, and step in before things escalate.
2. 2Reduce input. Lower the volume, dim lights, switch off extra screens and clear clutter from the space.
3. 3Build in breaks. Schedule short quiet times between busy tasks, and plan recovery time after outings.
4. 4Allow movement. Walking or stretching are simple options if the person likes them; ask an occupational therapist before using pressure products such as weighted blankets.
5. 5Plan ahead for events. Visit venues early, bring familiar items, agree on a signal to leave and keep a quiet exit in mind.

• Our guide to ADHD and memory covers memory and planning, and our guide to ADHD stimming explains stimming.

When to talk to a GP or specialist

You do not need to cope alone. Talk to your GP, paediatrician or specialist if any of these apply.

• Overwhelm is happening often and is affecting school, work, sleep or relationships.
• Meltdowns, shutdowns or avoidance are getting worse or not easing with simple changes.
• You are unsure whether sensitivities relate to ADHD, autism, anxiety or something else.
• Noise, light or touch is causing pain, headaches or distress that does not settle.
• You or your child feel hopeless, very low or unsafe at any point.

Call 000 in an emergency or if someone is in immediate danger. For crisis support call Lifeline on 13 11 14. Call healthdirect on 1800 022 222 (NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria) at any time for nurse advice, or the ADHD Foundation on 1300 39 39 19 (healthdirect ADHD page).

TQN Care support workers help with personal care, community access, respite and help around the home across Sydney, Melbourne and surrounding areas (NSW & VIC). Tell us what you need and we will call you back.

Your next step

Understanding what overwhelms you or your child is a strong start, and everyday help makes plans easier to keep. At TQN Care, we support people with disability at home and in the community, and you can see everything we do on our NDIS services page. Tell us what you need and we will talk through the options. For assessment or treatment, speak to your GP.