Why does silence hurt?

For some, pure silence is under-stimulating (under-arousal), causing the brain to generate anxiety to wake itself up. 'Brown Noise' is often better than silence.

It's low-frequency static (like a heavy waterfall). It masks high-frequency distractions and is famously soothing for ADHD brains.

Are noise-canceling headphones safe?

Yes, but don't wear them 24/7. Your brain will increase its sensitivity to compensate, making the world seem louder when you take them off.

The Decibel Detective

Visualize invisible noise. Calculate the cumulative sensory load of your environment.

📜 The Origins

Sensory overload isn't just about loud noises; it's about the cumulative 'layering' of background sounds. This tool uses logarithmic addition to show you the true cost of 'quiet' noise.

🚀 Master the Tool

Toggle common background noises to see how they stack up. Watch the 'Stress Bar' to see when you hit the danger zone.

Noise Sources

Sensory Sensitivity (Hyperacusis)

ResilientNormalHypersensitive

Total Acoustic Load

0.0 dB(P)

QuietBusyPainful

Actual SPL

0.0 dB

Physical sound pressure

Safe Duration

Unlimited

Before sensory fatigue

The Accumulation of Noise

We think of noise as "events" (a car horn, a phone ring). But for Neurodivergent brains (ADHD/Autism), noise is a texture. It accumulates like plaque.

Logarithmic Stacking

Decibels are logarithmic. * 30dB: Whisper. * 60dB: Conversation. * 90dB: Danger Zone. But it's not just volume. It's complexity. A consistent 50dB Air Conditioner is easier to ignore than a variable 40dB conversation. The brain tries to "decode" the conversation, burning glucose, while it filters out the AC.

Sensory Gating

Neurotypical brains have a "gate" that shuts out background noise. ADHD brains often have a "broken gate." Every sound enters with equal priority. * The clock ticking. * The lights humming. * The fabric of your shirt scratching seeing. This leads to rapid exhaustion (Sensory Overload).