Sensory Processing Difficulties

What are Sensory processing Difficulties?

Sensory processing is the way that our body takes in and makes sense of information. Our senses include hearing, vision, touch, taste and smell, as well as vestibular processing (which helps with balance and movement), proprioception (how we sense our body in the space around it), and interoception (our awareness of internal body sensations). We use our senses daily to interact with the world.

Difficulties that can arise with Sensory Processing

  • Some individuals struggle to cope with certain sensory experiences. They may have difficulty tolerating noises, tastes, textures of food or may be highly sensitive to touch including the feel of clothing on skin.

  • Everyday tasks such as wearing particular clothing, eating, or brushing teeth can therefore be difficult and lead to avoidance of environments, activities, or interactions. 

  • A person may seek out certain sensations to regulate themselves. This might create a challenge, for example someone might need to move frequently during activities that require stillness or focus.

  • When sensory input becomes overwhelming, it can make it harder for a person to express their needs or communicate effectively.

  • Sensory sensitivities are often linked to increased stress and anxiety levels. This heightened state can, in turn, make a person even more sensitive to sensory input, creating a cycle of overwhelm.

  • Sensory experiences and responses can vary significantly from day to day and may depend on context or other factors such as mood, fatigue, or stress levels.

How we can help

At The Family Treatment Service our highly experienced Occupational Therapists provide assessments and tailored intervention plans for children and young adults experiencing sensory processing difficulties . You can find out more about this service and how to book an initial consultation here.

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