Overstimulation
It's not a bad mood. It's neurological overload. Learn to recognize the signs and know what to do.
What is overstimulation?
Imagine all the sounds, lights, smells, and social interactions of a day coming in unfiltered, at full volume. The cup overflows. That's overstimulation — not a choice, not being dramatic, but a brain screaming "enough."
Recognizing the signs
- Responding curtly or irritably (even to small things)
- Withdrawing, being quiet
- Physical signs: hands over ears, closing eyes, restless movement
- Difficulty with decisions ('What do you want to eat?' becomes too much)
- Sudden exhaustion
- Crying or getting angry more easily than usual
What helps
- Reduce stimuli: dim lights, turn off sounds, give space
- Offer something concrete: 'I'll make tea, go lie down'
- Be there, but quiet
- Discuss it later, not during the overstimulation
What doesn't help
- Ask questions that require choices
- Take it personally
- Try to 'fix' it by talking
- React with frustration (even if you feel it)
After the storm
When things are calmer, talk briefly. Not to "analyze," but to learn: "What helped? What can I do differently next time?" This builds a shared language for difficult moments.