Comments on: All About Bipolar: Sensory Overload Explained

By: Erika

Erika — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 23:43:22 +0000

I have bipolar and also experience this at times. I would consider it a primary symptom of bipolar for me. I have told doctors I feel “sensitive” and they misunderstand and think I’m saying I’m emotionally sensitive. Perhaps that too, but what I’m talking about is sensory sensitivity. It happens most acutely during episodes of illness, but I also have problems with things like the cereal aisle at supermarkets even at the best of times. Also, I have extreme sensitivity to some visual patterns, like narrow high-contrast stripes, which make my eyes go buggy, that also happens at any time. I’m afraid I don’t have any coping strategies that don’t involve reducing stimuli, but that does help. Do you have an eye pillow? Those are good for blocking out light and they look more fashionable than curling up in a ball.

By: ashten

ashten — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:17:49 +0000

I have Bipolar I disorder along with some depression and anxiety disorder and one of the most difficult things to cope with is the sensory overload. Sometimes just having any sort of music on can help. I’m most sensitive to sound and sight so having that steady, predictable pattern of 4 beats really helps me tune the rest of the noise static out. things with lower bass & drums are easiest to follow. Visually if its really mild drawing can help as well, but I become nauseated and feverish fairly quickly.

By: atorturedsoul

atorturedsoul — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 03:13:28 +0000

Anxiety attacks is often diagnosed as panic disorder. OCD involves rituals, counting and repeated actions. I have some OCD-like behaviors and I have found that this isn’t uncommon with bipolar disorder. Multiple diagnosis is very common. I have bipolar disorder (type 1) with psychotic features and panic disorder with agoraphobia. Health problems, such as fibromyalgia, are also very common.

By: atorturedsoul

atorturedsoul — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 00:20:24 +0000

Meds help, but once an episode of sensory overload starts it usually requires complete silence and sometimes even isolation. If you need someone to talk to, please email me at support@allaboutbipolar.com.

By: supportive wife

supportive wife — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 22:16:17 +0000

Thank you for posting this. My husband has been suffering from an anxiety disorder for several months as a result of a workplace injury. He’s not bipolar but his symptoms are very similar to yours. Have you found anything that helps (meds, relaxation techiques, ANYTHING?)

By: atorturedsoul

atorturedsoul — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 22:35:30 +0000

My issues are compounded by agoraphobia and I am unable to work outside of my home. Sorry that I can’t be of any help there. If you need someone to talk to, feel free to email me at support@allaboutbipolar.com.

By: Brooke

Brooke — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 22:11:10 +0000

Wow – thanks for talking about this – I googled “sensory overload” because I’m trying to cope. And, I’m bipolar, but didn’t know of your blog. My symptoms are less extreme, but problematic. I’m trying to identify when things come up and leave the situation. I find I breathe deeply more often. I now bring earplugs to concerts and don’t necessarily stay the whole time. I can’t stay in crowded rooms very long. I don’t like noisy restaurants. And, I do act out in a humiliating manner at times. My friends are increasingly aware of my issue. My huge fear is work — I’m supposed to return soon and I’m really scared about my sensory/emotional threshold issue. Any insight on further coping skills in the work place especially are appreciated!

By: Sid

Sid — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 00:43:40 +0000

Thanks for the link over here. It's nice to know I'm not the only one that understands sensory overload, though I wish neither of us ever had to experience it. I have considered getting those headphones that block out all the noise, but have yet to find a pair that work and are still affordable. I'll bookmark your page and be back to read more once I can concentrate. Sid’s last blog post..Sensory overload

By: Glenn

Glenn — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 20:46:11 +0000

The noises in my head are real.

By: atorturedsoul

atorturedsoul — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 23:34:40 +0000

Bipolar Disorder & Sensory Overload http://bit.ly/3vjwsj

[Original tweet, Topsy page]