[Possible Signs of Sensory Overload].

To identify, synthesize and structure the defining characteristics of overstimulation. The literature search was conducted in relevant international databases (Pubmed, Medline, CINAHL, Psyndex, PsycArticles, PsychINFO). The literature analysis was conducted according to Mayring's method of qualitative content analysis. Despite the scanty data available on symptoms or effects of sensory overload, twelve literature-sources were identified, describing signs and symptoms of sensory overload. A cluster of psychopathological and behavioral characteristics of sensory overload was developed. Further research is needed to obtain an evidence-based description of the defining characteristics of sensory overload.