India, Sept. 27 -- Navratri and Durga Puja bring a wave of excitement across homes and communities, with nine days of devotion, music, lights, rituals, and endless celebrations. Yet, what makes the season so exhilarating can also make it overwhelming. From loud sounds and flashing lights to packed schedules and constant socialising, the festivities often become overstimulating for both children and adults, leaving many struggling to balance joy with calm.

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Mansi Poddar, a trauma-informed psychotherapist and mental health expert with over 15 years of experience, points out how overwhelming festive celebrations can sometimes be, and suggests ways to manage the overstimulation so that families can enjoy ...