A deeper understanding of SPD
Sensory Processing Differences
What are sensory processing difficulties?
Sensory processing difficulties occur when the brain does not process information from sensory stimuli in an expected way.
Individuals who struggle with sensory processing difficulties either over or under respond to sensory stimuli. This is called being hypo-sensitive (under responsive) or hyper-sensitive (over responsive). Hyper-sensitivity creates a quick response and an individual will appear to over-react to very little sensory input. One easily understood example of this would be someone being very sensitive to noise. Hypo-sensitivity in individuals requires extra sensory stimuli and a craving for additional input. Basic examples being spicy or salty foods, and the desire to perpetually rock and spin.
What about sensory processing changes from PTSD, trauma and Brain Injury?
I hold to the standpoint that sensory processing difficulties following traumatic life changing events that can lead to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) as well as traumatic and acquired brain injuries (TBI/ABI) needs more advocating and public acknowledgement.
Current statistics (NHS) state that 33% of those who have experienced trauma may develop PTSD and 1 in 10 people will experience PTSD in their lifetime.
The sensory processing differences that result from these experiences can alter the needs and usage of the home.
80% of patients with a TBI have experienced sensory overload since their injury, with a significant impact on their quality of life. This statistic represents real people and real families. If by adjusting what we use and have in our homes can help someone’s quality of life, and therefore their relationships, then that is surely something worth investing in.
Many people associate having sensory processing difficulties as a sign of autism. In fact, 90-95% of individuals with autism have Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD).
However, whilst the vast majority of individuals who are autistic also have SPD, the reverse isn’t a given. In reality, most people with sensory processing difficulties do not have autism. The STAR institute for sensory processing in America believe that 1 in 20 of us experience sensory processing difficulties. Many of us will have struggled with our sensory processing on our mental wellbeing without understanding the link and the impact it has had.
The three categories of sensory processing differences:
1. Sensory modulation disorder.
This affects an individual’s ability to regulate their response to sensory stimuli
2. Sensory based motor disorder.
This affects coordination and balance.
3. Sensory discrimination.
This is the understanding of where the sensory information is coming from.
Under current guidelines in the UK, Sensory Processing Disorder is diagnosed as part of thorough clinical assessments due to the challenges it creates on the functioning of daily life. It is seen as a subtype and not a standalone diagnosis. Sensory processing difficulties are milder in their day-day limitations and can be diagnosed by an Occupational Therapist (OT).
I personally take the view that all forms of sensory processing difficulties are to be taken seriously and with compassion.
I believe that sensory processing disorder should be a recognised and diagnosable condition and not simply seen as a subtype of neurodiversity.
What about sensory processing changes from PTSD, trauma and Brain Injury?
I hold to the standpoint that sensory processing difficulties following traumatic life changing events that can lead to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) as well as traumatic and acquired brain injuries (TBI/ABI) needs more advocating and public acknowledgement.
Current statistics (NHS) state that 33% of those who have experienced trauma may develop PTSD and 1 in 10 people will experience PTSD in their lifetime.
The sensory processing differences that result from these experiences can alter the needs and usage of the home.
80% of patients with a TBI have experienced sensory overload since their injury, with a significant impact on their quality of life. This statistic represents real people and real families. If by adjusting what we use and have in our homes can help someone’s quality of life, and therefore their relationships, then that is surely something worth investing in.