Sensory Sensitivity and Overload: Exploring Their Impact on Wellness with Julie Bjelland, LMFT

Click the Play Button Below to Listen

Transcript

Welcome back to The Sensitive and Neurodivergent Podcast!
I’m your host, Julie Bjelland, a psychotherapist specializing in high sensitivity and neurodivergence.

In today’s episode, we’re diving into the powerful topic of sensory sensitivity and sensory overload, exploring how these experiences shape our lives and impact our wellness.

Episode Highlights:

• What is sensory sensitivity, and why do neurodivergent individuals experience it?

• The challenges of sensory overwhelm and its physical and emotional effects.

• Examples of sensory overload in everyday life, from coffee shops to social events.

• The long-term health impacts of repeated sensory overwhelm.

• Practical tools and strategies to manage sensory challenges.

• Embracing sensory joy and reframing sensitivity as a strength.

• Listener questions, including topics like sensory overload with age and how sensitivities vary among individuals.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

• Free Autism Quiz

• Video Autism Assessments

• Global Consultations: Available via video, phone, or live text chat.

• Online Courses: Explore six courses designed for sensitive and neurodivergent individuals.

• Sensitive Empowerment Community: A supportive space for connection and thriving.

• Free Webinars, including Sensory Overload and How to Set Healthy Boundaries.

Key Takeaways:

1. Understanding Sensory Sensitivity:

   • Sensory sensitivity involves an intense awareness of sensory input, often leading to overwhelm.

   • This heightened awareness can be a natural part of being neurodivergent or highly sensitive.

2. Sensory Overwhelm and Health Impacts:

   • Repeated overwhelm can lead to burnout, chronic stress, and physical health issues like migraines and autoimmune flare-ups.

   • Tools like grounding exercises, mindfulness, and sensory kits can help regulate the nervous system and prevent long-term impacts.

3. Practical Tools for Sensory Regulation:

   • Build a sensory toolkit, such as noise-canceling headphones, weighted blankets, or soothing textures.

   • Advocate for your needs by setting boundaries and creating sensory-friendly environments.

4. Embracing Sensory Joy:

   • Sensory sensitivity allows us to experience beauty in unique ways, from enjoying the sound of rain to relishing the warmth of sunlight.

   • Identifying moments of sensory joy can deepen our connection to the world around us.

Listener Questions Answered:

• Does sensory overload worsen with age?

• How can we rethink exercise to accommodate sensory challenges?

• Are some senses more sensitive for different people?

• Are sensitivities to pain and emotions more common in HSPs or autistic individuals?

Reflection Questions:

• What moments of sensory joy bring you peace and happiness?

• How can you create a more sensory-friendly environment in your daily life?

Support the Podcast:
If you enjoyed today’s episode, please take a moment to review and share it. Your support helps us reach listeners in over 188 countries and continue to spread awareness and empowerment.

Connect with Me:
Visit JulieBjelland.com for resources, assessments, courses, and support.
Join the conversation in our Sensitive Empowerment Community!

Julie Bjelland, LMFT, is a consultant and specialist in high-sensitivity and late-discovered autism. A neurodivergent psychotherapist, author, and founder of Sensitive Empowerment, Julie is passionate about guiding sensitive and neurodivergent individuals to reduce challenges, improve their mental and physical health, flourish to their fullest potential, and embrace their authentic selves. Through her global support hub, Julie provides online courses, a supportive community, a podcast, articles, and webinars—all thoughtfully designed to reduce overwhelm, balance the sensitive nervous system, and foster resilience. As a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, Julie is devoted to creating safe, inclusive spaces where differences are celebrated and strengths are fully embraced. Discover more at JulieBjelland.com.

---