Family Learning Center

The brain is the epicenter manager of all body functions. Cognitive Overload occurs when the brain must process enormous amounts of information in succession and often within short periods of time. The brain shuts down when having to utilize more brain-strength than usual. When taking in information, the brain uses its reservoir of knowledge to interpret, rationalize decisions and to think logically. Cognitive overload is when the working memory is full and cannot take in any additional information. Think, if your brain can only hold a half glass of words and you are forced to see or hear more words, the glass overflows and only the half glass of information is absorbed; this leads to a .paralysis of information taken in and inability to process or act on what is heard.

Cognitive overload symptoms:

• Heightened stress levels occur when the overflow of information, expectations or tasks produce a stress response, contributing to feelings of anxiety and tension.
• Finding it difficult to concentrate, remain focused,
• Difficulty in recalling, forgetfulness, memory retrieval, or in retaining added information,
• A diminished ability to make cogent and objective decisions,
• Slower processing speed, slower reaction, lower accuracy, and a decline in cognitive abilities.
• Excessive screen time can lead to digital overload, leaving the brain fatigued and overstimulated. Digital overload is when using technology devices like smartphones, Chromebooks, computers, or TV exposes more sensory information than the brain can process. Signs of digital overload include irritability, anxiety, vision problems, difficulty sleeping, and mood swings.

Cognitive Overload can be managed.

• Learn to say, “I did not get that, would you repeat it. “Repeat of information allow for focus and extended processing time.
• Limit multitasking by concentrating on one task at a time.
• Divide and break down large tasks into smaller and manageable chunks,
• Prioritizing tasks based on importance and priority.
• Managing time given to each task helps prevent cognitive overload and task pileup.
• Use an Agenda Book, calendar, to-do-notes, lists, organization charts, digital apps to help with organizational and executive functioning skills.
• Use mindfulness practices for relaxation, i.e., deep breathing, stretching, taking a walk, closing eyes while thinking about something pleasurable.
• Physical well-being supports cognitive functioning. Ensure to get proper sleep, good nutrition, and exercise,
• Seeking help or support by collaborating with someone that can help to identify areas of stress, ways to distribute tasks to prevent or remediate cognitive overload.

Understanding and managing cognitive overload is vital to reducing stressors and maintaining well-being. Implementing strategies to reduce cognitive load can improve the ability to focus, manage time, complete tasks, and embrace an enhance self-esteem.

Remember, we all have a brain that functions individually, taking in different amounts of information, processing information differently, storing different amounts of information, and is not a measure of intelligence. No two people process cognitively the same. Celebrate cognitive differences and support individuality with respect.

Dr. Pamela Cooper, MA, MBA, PhD.

Educational Diagnostician

Winslow Township Middle School

drpamelacooper1@gmail.com