Dysregulation means difficulty managing or recovering from emotional, sensory, or physiological stress. It describes moments when the brain and body’s regulation systems become overwhelmed — making it harder to stay calm, process information, or respond in a way that feels in control.
Emotional dysregulation can look like sudden mood changes, intense feelings, crying, anger, shutdown, or trouble calming down after something stressful. These reactions aren’t chosen; they reflect how the nervous system responds to overload or threat. For autistic and ADHD people, emotional cues may build up quickly or take longer to settle because the brain’s regulation pathways work differently.
Sensory dysregulation happens when the body struggles to process or filter sensory input. Sounds, lights, textures, smells, movement, or even internal sensations (like hunger or pain) can become overwhelming, painful, or confusing. The person may react strongly, withdraw, or seem “unresponsive,” depending on whether their system goes into fight, flight, or freeze.
Dysregulation is not “bad behaviour” or lack of self-control — it’s a physiological signal that the nervous system needs support, safety, or rest. Co-regulation (soothing support from another person), predictable routines, quiet spaces, or sensory tools can help the body return to balance. Over time, recognising the early signs of dysregulation can help people build self-awareness and design environments that reduce overwhelm and promote calm.