It is important that sensory overload/hypersensitivity is considered in the wider context of other possible difficulties arising from the brain injury. A comprehensive multidisciplinary assessment is therefore recommended in order to try to identify and treat possible causative medical conditions and other contributory factors.

The habitual use of stimulus-reducing tools such as ear plugs or sunglasses and avoidance of the ‘triggering’ stimulus seem sensible, helpful and caring approaches. However, although these approaches appear logical and rational, they can potentially relieve distress/discomfort, but they are likely to be counterproductive:

  • They may exacerbate pre existing sensory impairment (e.g. hearing/visual impairments).
  • They may increase an individual’s sensitivity to the avoided stimulus and actually make the symptoms worse.

The most effective treatment approach for specific problems of hypersensitivity (e.g. noise, light) is a desensitisation programme (gradually increasing exposure to the avoided stimulus). This type of treatment programme involves controlled exposure to incremental increases of the uncomfortable stimulus. Expert advice should be sought from a Clinical Psychologist.

Key Message:
Try to prevent the development of unhelpful behaviours that effectively promote the avoidance of the stimulus:

  • Do not try to protect the person from exposure to the ‘trigger’ stimulus e.g. drawing curtains during day to protect from bright light.
  • Do not encourage the maintenance of behaviours which enable the person to actively avoid the stimulus e.g. not going shopping to avoid busy noisy environments.