ADHD and sensory overwhelm: Itchy tags and tight clothes

Itchy tags, tight clothes, and scratchy fabrics can trigger real ADHD sensory overwhelm. Dr. Monica Johnson explains why it happens and what can help.For many women with ADHD, some clothing isn’t just uncomfortable — it can feel unbearable. This sensory overload can make even getting dressed a challenge. On this episode, you’ll learn:Why sensory overwhelm is more than being “too sensitive”How ADHD and sensory overload intersect, especially for womenThe common clothing triggers that spark discomfort (tags, textures, tight fits, etc.)Practical strategies to make daily routines easierFor more on this topicADHD and emotional dysregulationADHD and sensory overloadADHD, sensory systems, and communicationEvaluating dopamine reward pathway in ADHD: Clinical implicationsAbnormal functional connectivity in children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorderThe impact of deep pressure stimulation on anxietyThe effects of background white noise on memory performance in inattentive school childrenTimestamps(00:00) Intro(00:58) What is sensory processing(02:14) How to body responds to sensory overload(03:17) What sensory processing challenges can look like (07:04) Why sensory discomfort is different for women(08:32) Tips for managing sensory challengesFor a transcript and more resources, visit the MissUnderstood: ADHD in Women page on Understood.org. We love hearing from our listeners! Email us at [email protected]. Understood.org is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.