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hypersensitivity

light sensory sound touch
by
Weirdly Successful
Weirdly Successful (author)  

First published: 28 June, 2023 | Last edited: 12 January, 2026 || 📚🕒 Reading Time: < 1 minute ||

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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Related Terms

sensory avoiding

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…

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sensory overwhelm

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.

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stimming

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.

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Sensory processing difficulties

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.

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deep pressure

Deep pressure is a natural sensory need where firm, consistent pressure (like heavy blankets or tight hugs) helps tension melt away from your body. Many people naturally seek this through things like snug clothing or curling up under blankets - it's your nervous system's way of finding calm and comfort.

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misophonia

Misophonia is a neurodivergent condition characterized by an intense emotional and physiological response to specific sounds. People with misophonia experience strong negative reactions, such as anger, anxiety, or disgust, when exposed to certain sounds. These sounds can vary from person to person but commonly include chewing, slurping, tapping, or repetitive noises.

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  • Weirdly Successful

    Weirdly Successful

    A 100% neurodivergent team — Adam Dobay, Livia Farkas and Nora Selmeczi — bringing together lived experience, adult education expertise, clinical training and NHS co-production to create friendly, science-backed resources that help neurodivergent adults figure out what actually works for them

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