It’s that time of year again – the festive season is in full swing, meaning extra decorations, lights, and music, you name it. As exciting as this time of year can be, it can also be overwhelming for some people who experience sensory overload at work. If you’re diagnosed with ADHD or Autism, or you feel overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle of this season, it’s essential to take steps to manage your sensory overload at work. Here are a few tips for managing sensory overload at work during the Christmas season.

Take regular breaks

Reset your senses and maintain focus with regular breaks throughout the day. During the break, you can stretch, take a little walk outside, or find a quiet spot to sit and relax. Allowing yourself to reset can help reduce stress and ultimately improve your concentration. You can also take deep breaths or practice mindfulness exercises to help you relax.

Decrease Gift Opening Sensory Overload

Gifts can bring a lot of sensory stimulation, so it’s best to limit or avoid this. You can ask your employer if opening gifts later or in a particular spot away from the office is okay. This will help reduce distractions and let you focus on your tasks without feeling overwhelmed by your senses. Alternatively, if you must open gifts at work, you can ask your colleagues to open their gifts one at a time.

Reduce noise and light levels

Noise can be particularly overwhelming during the festive season, as your work may put decorations up and host Christmas quizzes or parties. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, try finding a place in your office where you can reduce the level of stimulation by turning off lights or turning down the volume.

Wear noise-cancelling earphones

Noise-cancelling headphones are great for blocking out unwanted sounds while you work. They help reduce sensory overload and allow you to stay focused on your work tasks.

Keep your workspace organised

A cluttered workspace can be distracting and overwhelming. Try to keep your workspace clean and organised, and ensure you have everything you need. Having all your tools in one place can help reduce stress by allowing you to focus on the project at hand. Keep the decorations to a minimum since too many can cause sensory overload.

Communicate

Communication is key to managing sensory overload at work. Talk to your co-workers and managers about how the festive season can be overwhelming for you and ask for their support. They may help you manage your sensory overload by providing noise-cancelling headphones or setting up a quiet space for you to work.

Choose Comfortable Clothes

Wearing clothing that is not too constricting and doesn’t have tight seams can also help reduce anxiety caused by sensory overload. But you

should still dress for the season – it just means you should be mindful of what you’re wearing and how it might affect your comfort level. Choose clothes that are comfortable yet professional and appropriate for the office.

By taking these steps, you can manage sensory overload at work during the Christmas season and make it a more enjoyable experience. With some preparation, you can ensure that the festive season is enjoyable and stress-free.