What is a potential sign of sensory overload in individuals?

Sensory overload occurs when an individual is exposed to excessive sensory stimulation, which can overwhelm their ability to process information. A potential sign of sensory overload is discomfort and impaired function, as individuals might experience heightened sensitivity to sounds, lights, or other stimuli. This can result in feelings of anxiety, irritability, or frustration, leading to difficulty concentrating and performing everyday tasks.

In contrast, increased attention span, heightened relaxation, and enhanced focus are typically not associated with sensory overload. Instead, these states suggest a level of comfort and effective processing of sensory information, which is contrary to what individuals experience during sensory overload. Thus, discomfort and impaired function serve as clear indicators that someone may be struggling with overwhelming sensory inputs.