RECOGNIZING SENSORY OVERLOAD IN YOUR RELATIONSHIP WHEN LOVE FEELS LOUD
Sometimes, it’s not the conversation or relationship that is overwhelming; it’s everything happening around it. A blaring TV, a busy store, bright lights, or even a light touch at the wrong moment can cause sensory overload, especially for neurodivergent people. When the brain gets overstimulated, it can make communication feel nearly impossible. If your romantic partner is neurodivergent or easily overwhelmed by their environment, they may need a little space and understanding. RECOGNIZE THE SIGNS Sensory overload is a reaction of the nervous system. Those who have autism or ADHD process sensations differently and may tense up emotionally when faced with
too many stimuli at once. It can also happen to anyone. In relationships, this can often be misinterpreted. A partner who is experiencing sensory overload may pull back, shut down, tire out, become irritable, or exhibit physical signs such as a clenched jaw or reduced eye contact. UNDERSTAND THE PATTERNS Relationships themselves can naturally add to the stressors on an already sensitive nervous system. Moods can change even in stable relationship, shared homes can have a lot of clutter or competing noises, emotions can feel extra loud, and arguments can happen. When partners have different regulation styles, it can create a loop of conflict and disconnection. One partner pulling away can be misread as a lack of care or anger, when they are really seeking a chance to regulate. CREATE SHARED SOLUTIONS If you or your partner gets overloaded easily, creating a system that helps both of you reach a state of mind where you can approach a conversation clearly can strengthen the relationship. In the moment, it may mean eliminating some distractions, using a 1–10 scale to describe how overwhelmed you are, and agreeing to put things on pause for a set amount of time to regroup. Even a small buffer time of 30 minutes after each person returns from work can help reduce potential sensory overloads. If you want to learn more about sensory overload in your relationship, visit our YouTube channel at YouTube.com/@Divorce.brucelawfirm for our recent interview with Dr. Clara Bossie of Wisely Wellness, LLC.
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SLOW COOKER CHILI
INGREDIENTS • 2 lbs lean ground beef • 1 large onion, diced • 4 garlic cloves, minced • 2 tbsp chili powder • 2 tsp cumin powder • 1 tsp garlic powder • 1 tsp dried oregano • 1 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
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1/2 tsp black pepper
1 15-oz can black beans, drained and rinsed 1 15-oz can kidney beans, drained and rinsed 1 30-oz can diced tomatoes, with juice 1 10-oz can diced tomatoes and green chilis, with juice
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1 15-oz can tomato sauce
DIRECTIONS 1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sauté beef until it releases fat (4–5 minutes), breaking it up with a spatula. 2. Add onion and sauté until tender (4–5 minutes). 3. Add minced garlic and seasonings. 4. Cook another 30 seconds, stirring constantly. 5. Transfer to a 6-qt slow cooker, and add remaining ingredients. 6. Stir to combine and cook on high for 3–4 hours or on low for 6–8 hours. 7. Season to taste if desired and serve warm.
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