After going through an episode of intense sensory overload and then self-soothing (stimming, blocking out lights and noises, etc.) is it normal to feel so drained that you fall asleep for much longer than usual? I was on vacation recently and one day in particular really overloaded my senses. I felt like I was losing my mind because I was surrounded by triggers (big crowds, crying babies, uncomfortable weather, strong smells, cramped spaces). Once I got back to the room I was staying in, I calmed myself down (stim toys, earplugs, sunglasses) and slept for 15 hours. I have insomnia and it's unusual for me to get a full night's sleep. I'm wondering if it's the sensory overload that drained me and made me tired enough to sleep, or if stimming in bed and blocking out my senses is what helped calm me down enough to sleep better than usual (or if there's some other factor I'm not considering at the moment). Just trying to figure this out and hear from anyone else who has had similar experiences, thanks.
☝ This content is generated by our users and it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with your physician before making any medical decision
Want to chat or share? Download the Alike app now and get complete access to Alike.health's unique features.
"Sensory overload can be exhausting which can translate as feeling sleepy. After a meltdown/shutdown/being triggered, it's common to feel exhausted and need rest. Sleeping is a way to kind of mute sensory input, so it could be your response to overload."
Bupropion
night sweats
paranoid
Valium
sertraline
palpitations
Anxiety (Including GAD)
Depression
palpitations
Depression
Valium
Bupropion
Alike health
Instantly get answers to medical questions with our AI, built from the collective wisdom of our community facing similar experiences
Related Questions