Sensory overload

Sensory overload within the context of psychoactive substance usage is the experience of feeling overwhelmed by the sheer amount of sensory inputs occurring as a result of various other subjective effects.

The specific effects that can result in sensory overload commonly include prolonged exposure to any combination of tactile enhancement, spontaneous bodily sensations, stimulation, high-level geometry, internal hallucinations, and auditory hallucinations. This can often result in feelings of physical discomfort, cognitive impairment, memory suppression, ego death, anxiety, and a general sense of cognitive fatigue.

Sensory overload is most commonly induced under the influence of heavy dosages of psychedelic compounds, such as LSD, psilocybin, and mescaline. However, it can also occur much less consistently under the influence of other classes of compounds, such as dissociatives, cannabinoids, and stimulants.