Sensory Processing Disorder

Our senses-sight, smell, taste, hearing, vision- help us navigate the world and connect with our environment and people around us. Unfortunately for 1 out of 20 people, their brains process sensory information differently. Sensory processing disorder (SPD) is not a diagnosis in itself, but it is a symptom of other disorders such as Autism, Anxiety, or ADHD. People with SPD, can either overreact or underreact to the sensory information their brain receives. Some of the symptoms include:

Oversensitive Reaction

Regardless of the reaction, treatment for both types of SPD is occupational therapy and sensory-integrated therapy. It is important to understand that therapy is person specific and what works for one person may not work for another. As the sensory system matures and develops, some people will “outgrow” some of their symptoms. For others, ongoing therapy and perseverance will help them build coping skills to manage their symptoms and begin to enjoy every aspect of their environment.

Resources:

Arky, B. (n.d.). Sensory Processing Issues Explained. Child Mind Institute. https://childmind.org/article/sensory-processing-issues-explained/

Goodman, MA, B., &Brennan, MD, D. (2023, March 14). Sensory Processing Disorder. Web MD. https://www.webmd.com/children/sensory-processing-disorder  

Under-sensitive Reaction

• Gagging on different food textures  
• Covering ears when there are loud noises                     
• Feeling like clothes are itchy
• Covering eyes because they feel the lights are too bright

• Unable to pick up on social cues
• Sleeping difficulty                     
• Seeks visual stimuli (e.g electronics)
• Thrill-seeking behavior (e.g jumping off furniture)