Sensory Processing Disorder
A condition in which the brain has trouble receiving and responding to information that comes in through the senses.
Andy says:
Imagine the volume of the world is either turned up too high or too low. Sounds can be deafening, lights blinding, or touches painful. That’s what it can feel like.
Detailed Explanation
Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), also known as Sensory Integration Dysfunction, affects how the nervous system processes sensory stimuli. This can lead to over-sensitivity (hypersensitivity), under-sensitivity (hyposensitivity), or both. It can impact any of the senses, including sight, sound, touch, taste, smell, balance (vestibular), and body awareness (proprioception). While often associated with [[autism]], it can also be a standalone condition.
Community Context
People with SPD often develop coping strategies, such as wearing noise-canceling headphones, sunglasses indoors, or avoiding certain textures. Understanding SPD is key to creating more accessible and comfortable environments for [[neurodivergent]] individuals.