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LAST week, we delved into the intricate relationship between physical senses and memory formation. Our sensory experiences shape our memories, informing the very fabric of our personal narratives.
Now, let’s take a turn into a topic that flips the script on how we perceive and respond to the world, Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Let us discover what is SPD.
SPD can feel like a whirlwind of sensations gone awry. To put it simply, it’s a condition in which the brain has trouble receiving and responding to sensory information from the environment.
This can manifest in a variety of ways, resulting in hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity to stimuli that most people would consider mundane.
Imagine someone overwhelmed by the sound of nails on a chalkboard when, for everyone else, it’s just a minor annoyance. Or consider a person who feels immense discomfort from the texture of common fabrics like cotton or denim, steering clear of clothes that most people wear without a second thought.
In the context of the brain’s functioning, SPD occurs when the neuro pathways intended to process sensory information – like visual, auditory, tactile, olfactory, and proprioceptive signals – become tangled or dysfunctional.
Rather than having a seamless interaction with our surroundings, individuals with SPD may experience an amplified or dulled response to sensory input. This can create a cascading effect, complicating daily tasks and interactions.
It’s like trying to tune into your favourite radio station, but every time you turn the dial, you only get static!
So, what happens when the brain struggles with ‘sensory information’?
When the brain encounters challenges in processing sensory information, it can lead to a series of reactions and adaptations that significantly impact daily life. Let’s break it down:
Some individuals with SPD can become easily overstimulated by sensory inputs. Bright lights, loud sounds, and even the smell of certain foods can trigger an overwhelming response. These environments can feel chaotic, causing anxiety, panic attacks, or even meltdowns.
Picture yourself in a crowded, noisy mall; for someone with SPD, that situation might feel less like a fun outing and more like an impending sensory avalanche.
On the flip side, some individuals may respond less than expected to sensory input. This could mean that they might not feel pain as acutely, fail to notice important sounds, or avoid certain textures, potentially leading to injuries or missed social cues. Imagine a child who doesn’t react when they touch something incredibly hot.
It’s as if his/her brain is stuck on mute when it comes to adequately responding to stimuli that would typically elicit a reaction.
Sometimes, individuals with SPD can swing between being over-responsive and under-responsive. This inconsistency can be perplexing and frustrating, not only for the individual but for those around them who struggle to understand why their behaviour changes so dramatically. One moment they are completely overwhelmed, while the next, they seem utterly unfazed.
The emotional toll of SPD cannot be overlooked. People often feel frustrated, misunderstood, or even ostracised by their peers. In social situations, the anxiety of not knowing how sensory input will affect them can lead to avoidance of gatherings or outings, isolating individuals who might be longing for connection.
Why I chose this topic as my in-depth learning? It is because it’s a topic that needs more awareness.
In conversations about mental health and neurological issues, SPD often plays second fiddle to more commonly recognised conditions like ADHD or autism, but its impact is profound. Understanding SPD offers insight into the human experience, particularly how we relate to our environment – a crucial aspect of our everyday lives.
Additionally, SPD intimately relates to our well-being. For those affected, sensory environments can either amplify joy or plunge them into turmoil. Up to 16 per cent of children and adults may experience some form of SPD, often leading to significant challenges in everyday functioning.
Research shows that many individuals suffering from SPD may not even be aware that their sensory experiences differ from what is considered typical. This lack of awareness can lead to misunderstandings in social interactions, as friends and family may not comprehend why a simple birthday party feels like an overwhelming ordeal for their loved one.
The seemingly trivial elements, such as bright lights, crowded spaces, or certain smells, can provoke anxiety, irritability, and discomfort, resulting in withdrawal or social isolation.
In a world that often lacks understanding and accommodations for sensory needs, those with SPD may struggle with feelings of frustration and alienation. Imagine the impact this can have on one’s self-esteem and overall mental health.
My hope is to cast a little spotlight on this disorder, fostering empathy and understanding surrounding those who experience life a little differently. The impact of SPD extends beyond immediate sensations. It reaches into various facets of life that we often take for granted.
For example:
Daily Functioning: Everyday tasks such as shopping for groceries, attending school, or simply walking down the street can become monumental challenges. The array of sensory stimuli can lead to exhaustion and frustration, significantly detracting from an individual’s quality of life.
Social Interactions: For those with SPD, social gatherings can become a minefield of sensory overload. The fear of unpredictable triggers might inhibit socialization and affect relationships with friends and family. The isolation that can stem from SPD is often coupled with feelings of loneliness, further exacerbating emotional struggles.
Occupational Aspirations: In a world that values productivity and efficiency, sensory challenges can pose significant barriers in the workplace. Environments filled with bright lights, bustling crowds, or excessive noise can leave individuals feeling drained and unproductive. Finding careers that align with their sensitivities becomes critical yet challenging.
Mental Health: There’s a direct correlation between sensory processing challenges and mental health outcomes. Many individuals with SPD can struggle with anxiety or depression as they grapple with their experiences of the world. Understanding this interrelationship can lead to more comprehensive support systems that cater not just to the sensory issues but also to the mental health aspects that accompany them.
The implications of SPD extend beyond individual experiences; they ripple through social dynamics.
In summary, SPD is a multifaceted experience that can significantly impact one’s journey through life.
If our society is to be truly inclusive, recognising and addressing these unique challenges is paramount. Let’s imagine a world designed with an awareness of sensory processing needs – a world where inclusion and consideration are deeply embedded into the fabric of our public spaces.
In this reality, contemplation of sensory experiences can transform how we interact with our environment and each other. Consider the importance of calming colours in busy waiting rooms, soundproof areas in libraries, and quiet zones in bustling shopping centres. These adjustments, though seemingly small, could create spaces that resonate with individuals who might struggle in traditional settings.
Recognising the needs of individuals with SPD ultimately can nurture community well-being. Suppose we prioritise sensory considerations in schools and recovery centres. In such places, well-thought-out designs – calm colours, gentle sounds and soft textures – could facilitate an enhanced sense of safety and support.
This understanding helps facilitate open dialogue and strengthens the therapeutic relationship, ultimately enhancing emotional healing and recovery. Yet, many may still oversight the importance of such environments, further alienating those who might highly benefit from a sensory-friendly space.
As we continue to learn and share our understanding of SPD, may we collectively nurture compassion for those who navigate a unique sensory landscape.
Next time we step into a sensory-rich setting, let’s take a moment to appreciate the environment and reflect on how small adjustments could potentially transform someone’s experience from overwhelming to reassuring. By doing so, we embrace a world where everyone feels at home, valued, and understood.
Wrapping up our dive into Sensory Processing Disorder, we embrace empathy and understanding for varied sensory experiences.
Next week, we shall explore sensory overload in our stimulus-rich world and its impact on our well-being. Let us build a more inclusive and mindful society together. Be blessed, stay blessed!
Dr Temple Grandin
QUOTE:
“Sensory Processing Disorder can disrupt a person’s everyday life, but understanding the unique sensory needs allows us to create supportive environments for thriving.” – Dr Temple Grandin, known for her extensive work and advocacy. She is a professor of animal science at Colorado State University and a best-selling author, acclaimed for her groundbreaking books on autism and animal behaviour.
DISCLAIMER:
The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of Sarawak Tribune. The writer can be reached at lawleepoh@gmail.com.
