Delayed Sensory Affect: Understanding the Overload with Dr. Michael Felt
Oct 31, 2024
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Dr. Michael Felt, an ADHD and Executive Functioning specialist and professor at Columbia University, shares insights on Delayed Sensory Affect (DSA), a hidden struggle for many with ADHD. He explains how constant stimulation leads to neglect of basic needs until a chaotic breakdown occurs. The discussion highlights the emotional transitions from work to home, advocating for self-awareness and proactive routines. Pete opens up about the emotional toll these transitions can take, making it relatable for listeners navigating similar challenges.
Delayed Sensory Affect (DSA) illustrates how hyper-focus can disconnect individuals from their bodily needs, leading to overwhelming emotional responses later on.
Developing intentional strategies and routines can help manage DSA, improving transitions between work and home life for individuals with ADHD.
Deep dives
Understanding Delayed Sensory Affect (DSA)
Delayed Sensory Affect (DSA) is a phenomenon where internal sensory cues are ignored or overwhelmed by external stimuli, leading to a build-up of sensations that manifest once the overwhelming stimulation subsides. For example, children engrossed in a screen may not recognize their hunger until the program concludes, causing a sudden surge of unmet needs like hunger or bathroom urgency. This effect underscores how hyper-focus in both children and adults can lead to a disconnect from bodily sensations until a 'stream of stimulation' diminishes. The concept illustrates that, in the case of ADHD, individuals may not register their bodily needs until a sudden shift in focus occurs.
The Impact of DSA on Adult Behavior
Adults experience DSA in the workplace where constant demands and tasks can drown out personal needs and emotions. As one engages in hyper-focus at work, they may neglect basic self-care, like hydration or hunger, leading to feelings of irritability upon returning home. This mismanagement of sensory input can create a disconnect when transitioning from a productive work environment to family life, resulting in frustrations with loved ones. Acknowledgment of DSA provides insight into this behavior, allowing individuals to address the negative emotional states that might result from this sensory overload.
Practical Strategies for Managing DSA
To effectively manage DSA and its consequences, individuals are encouraged to develop strategies that cater to bodily needs during intense focus periods. For instance, preparing snacks or taking breaks intentionally before significant transitions can alleviate the overwhelming sensation of unmet needs. Simple rituals, like going for a walk after finishing work, can help create a buffer between work and home life, improving interpersonal dynamics. By establishing these habits, individuals can reduce the negative emotional impact associated with DSA and foster a healthier connection with themselves and their families.
The Importance of Communication and Self-Awareness
Raising awareness about DSA among loved ones can lead to more understanding relationships, as it provides context for behavior changes under strain. Communicating one's needs and acknowledging the effects of sensory overload allows family members to adjust their expectations during challenging times. It is crucial for individuals to observe patterns in their behavior and reactions to better manage their emotional responses associated with DSA. Practicing mindfulness and developing a sense of self-awareness are pivotal in recognizing and addressing one’s own sensory needs, ultimately promoting better relationships and personal well-being.
This week, Pete and Nikki sit down with Dr. Michael Felt to learn more about Delayed Sensory Affect (DSA). Ever find yourself so immersed in hyperfocus that basic needs fall by the wayside, only to erupt into chaos later? This could be a hidden ADHD struggle you've been facing.
We know our brains can be overwhelmed by constant stimuli and misinterpret sensory cues. This can lead to dramatic emotional responses. Through the amusing "I have to make" model, he illustrates how this affects both children and adults, becoming a silent disruptor in our daily lives.
The discussion turns raw as Pete opens up about the emotional toll of transitioning from work to home, highlighting a common yet unspoken burden for many ADHD adults. Nikki challenges listeners to recognize these patterns and take actionable steps to soften transitions with intention.
Dr. Felt is an ADHD & Executive Functioning specialist who has lectured at Yale University School of Medicine, and is a professor at Columbia University, where he teaches Psychopathology. He’s also, once again, a new dad. Congrats, Michael, from all of us, to all of you.