Hypersensitivity, also known as sensory over-responsivity, is a condition characterized by an extreme sensitivity or heightened response to sensory stimuli from the environment. Individuals with hypersensitivity may have a seemingly exaggerated reaction to various sensory inputs, such as sound, touch, taste, smell, or visual stimuli. These sensitivities can result in discomfort, distress, or even pain, making it challenging for individuals to engage in everyday activities. People with SPD may become overwhelmed and easily annoyed or anxious in sensory-rich environments. Not removing yourself from a hyperstimulating situation can lead to sensory overwhelm.
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Sensory avoiding, also known as sensory under-responsivity, refers to a pattern of behaviour where individuals actively try to avoid or minimise exposure to sensory stimuli. These individuals may have a heightened sensitivity to sensory input and...
A feeling of immense distress, a sensory overwhelm / autistic overwhelm is a strong reaction to stimuli caused by the compounded effects of stress, exhaustion, lack of safety, a sense of danger, unmet needs, too much information, noise, sights or sounds, smells or touch.
Stimming (self-stimulatory behaviour) tends to be more intense, deliberate, and repetitive. It can include hand flapping, rocking, making repetitive sounds, spinning, examining textures intensely, or listening to the same song on repeat for hours. Stimming is historically associated with autism and serves primarily as emotional and sensory regulation—a way to manage overwhelming feelings, process sensory input, express joy or excitement, or meet a physiological need for specific sensory feedback. Autistic people often describe stimming as a need rather than a choice.
Sensory processing difficulties are a group of traits associated with neurodivergence. They're part of the wider group of sensory processing differences, meaning all the ways neurodivergent brains handle sensory information differently from neurotypical peers. Any of the brain's 8 sensory processing systems can be affected by processing difficulties.
You've tried all the ADHD tips online, but nothing seems to stick. That's because neurodivergent brains don't come with universal solutions—what helps one person might not work for you at all. Here's how to discover your specific adaptations and create a life that actually works for YOUR brain. Explore your needs, what environments you work best in, what overwhelms you, and what helps you regulate.
Exploring the impact of internalised ableism made me re-evaluate my misinterpreted autistic and ADHD traits.
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sensory avoiding
sensory overwhelm
stimming
Sensory processing difficulties
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