Ever felt the urge to go full Marie Kondo and throw out everything you own because your space feels overwhelming? You’re not alone.
A recent TikTok by @norfolkavenue captures this sentiment, showing themselves dramatically tossing items aside with the caption: “Overstimulation is a thing 😂 Does anyone else get tempted by throwing things away because they’ve hoarded too much? 🤣”
Although the video brings a lighthearted approach to decluttering, it taps into a deeper issue that many face — sensory overload. In our hyperconnected world, we’re constantly surrounded by “stuff,” from the relentless notifications on our phones to the crowded spaces we navigate daily.
“Some women, and men, have heightened sensory sensitivity, which means they can be more easily overwhelmed by tactile sensations such as the feel of certain fabrics, the weight of hair, or the pressure of clothing on their skin,” Dr. Carolyn Mair, a cognitive psychologist, told Newsweek.
But it’s not just physical sensations that can push us over the edge (touch, hear, smell or see). The mental load of decision-making and social interactions combined with emotional baggage can also create a perfect storm of sensory overload.
While throwing everything away or completely shutting down might seem tempting, there are gentler approaches, according to Mair. Creating a relaxing end-of-day ritual, like changing into comfy clothes or letting your hair down (literally) can signal to your brain it’s time to unwind. Mindfulness practices, decluttering in small doses and engaging in regular exercise can also help create pockets of calm.
Mair also noted, “If feelings of overstimulation are overwhelming and interfere with daily functioning, it might be best to seek professional help.”
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