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Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD): When the World Feels Too Loud, Too Bright, Too Much

Updated: Dec 7, 2025

By Donna Burfield - Joy & Purpose Coaching

 

Some people move through the world effortlessly, filtering sounds, lights, textures, smells, and movement without a second thought. For others, everyday environments can feel overwhelming, too loud, too bright, too chaotic, too fast, or, in some cases, not stimulating enough.

 

This is the lived experience of Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD).

 

SPD isn’t a behavioural issue, attention problem, or a lack of resilience. It’s a neurological difference in how the brain processes sensory information. And for both children and adults, it can deeply affect daily life, confidence, communication, and well-being.



What Is Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)?

 

Sensory Processing Disorder affects how the brain interprets and responds to sensory information from:

 

  • sight

  • sound

  • touch

  • taste

  • smell

  • movement (vestibular)

  • body awareness (proprioception)

  • internal sensations (interoception)

 

SPD can make ordinary situations feel stressful, confusing, or physically uncomfortable. Some people seek out stimuli; others avoid them. Many do both, depending on the environment or the day.

 

Although not officially listed as a standalone diagnosis in the UK, SPD is widely acknowledged within occupational therapy, neurodiversity communities and is often seen in children and adults with autism, ADHD, dyspraxia, and Tourette’s, but can also exist independently.

 

Studies suggest 5-16% of children show symptoms of SPD, and many adults continue to experience sensory challenges throughout life.

 

SPD affects daily functioning, not intelligence, capability, or potential.


 

Types of Sensory Processing Disorder

 

SPD is often grouped into three main categories. Many people experience a mix.


 

1. Sensory Modulation Disorder (SMD)

 

Difficulty regulating responses to sensory input.

 

Sensory Over-Responsivity (Hypersensitivity)

 

The world feels too intense, noise, lights, textures, smells can be overwhelming.

 

People may:

 

  • avoid crowded places

  • dislike certain fabrics or textures

  • cover ears or squint

  • startle easily

  • feel anxious in busy environments

 

Sensory Under-Responsivity (Hyposensitivity)

 

The brain under-responds to sensory input.

 

People may:

 

  • not notice the name being called

  • seem “zoned out” or hard to engage

  • miss pain or temperature cues

  • appear slow to react

 

Sensory Seeking (Craving)

 

The brain craves extra input.

 

People may:

 

  • seek movement (spinning, jumping, rocking)

  • enjoy strong pressure or tight hugs

  • constantly touch objects

  • crave bright lights or strong tastes


 

2. Sensory Discrimination Disorder (SDD)

 

Difficulty interpreting sensory input accurately.

 

People may struggle to distinguish between:

 

  • different textures

  • similar sounds

  • spatial distances

  • object placement

  • subtle visual details

 

This can impact reading, coordination, handwriting, and motor skills.


 

3. Sensory-Based Motor Disorder (SBMD)

 

Difficulty using sensory information to plan and coordinate movement.

 

Includes:

 

Postural Disorder - Challenges with balance, stability, and core strength.

 

Dyspraxia (Motor Planning Difficulties) - Overlaps with Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD).


 

Common Symptoms of SPD

 

Symptoms can vary depending on the type and age.

 

In Children

 

  • meltdowns in noisy or busy places

  • refusal to wear certain clothes

  • difficulty brushing teeth or hair

  • picky eating based on texture

  • constantly moving or seeking pressure

  • avoiding messy play

  • trouble with balance or coordination

__ 

In Teenagers

 

  • sensory overwhelm in school corridors

  • discomfort with crowds, PE, or noise

  • challenges with emotional regulation

  • difficulties with organisation

  • extreme reactions to certain textures or sounds

 

In Adults

 

  • exhaustion from sensory overwhelm

  • difficulty concentrating in open-plan offices

  • avoidance of supermarkets, concerts, or restaurants

  • sensitivity to clothing, perfumes, or lighting

  • seeking quiet, predictable environments

  • feeling “drained” after social events

 

SPD often impacts mental well-being, leading to anxiety, avoidance, or burnout.


 

The Emotional Impact of SPD

 

Because sensory challenges are invisible, many people spend their lives feeling misunderstood or judged.

 

They may hear things like:

 

  • “You’re too sensitive.”

  • “Stop overreacting.”

  • “Everyone else can cope, why can’t you?”

  • “Just ignore it.”

 

This can create:

 

  • shame

  • social anxiety

  • avoidance

  • low self-esteem

  • masking (hiding symptoms)

  • emotional exhaustion

 

Understanding SPD can transform the experience from overwhelming to manageable, and from isolating to supported.


 

Strengths Often Seen in People With SPD

 

People with sensory differences often have beautifully unique strengths, including:

 

  • heightened intuition

  • deep empathy

  • creativity

  • strong pattern recognition

  • detail-focused thinking

  • heightened awareness

  • emotional sensitivity

  • problem-solving skills

  • artistic or musical talents

 

Their minds absorb the world deeply, and that is a gift.


 

Assessment & Diagnosis

 

SPD is typically assessed by:

 

  • Occupational Therapists (OTs)

  • Sensory Integration-trained specialists

  • Paediatric or educational teams

 

Assessment may involve observing:

 

  • sensory preferences

  • movement patterns

  • reactions to stimuli

  • daily functioning

 

Early intervention can significantly improve comfort, confidence, and coping skills.


 

Support Strategies

 

For Children

 

  • sensory diets (structured activities to regulate input)

  • weighted blankets

  • chew toys or fidget tools

  • predictable routines

  • noise-cancelling headphones

  • OT support

  • visual schedules

 

For Teenagers

 

  • quiet spaces in school

  • sensory-friendly uniforms or clothing

  • time to decompress

  • grounding techniques

  • exercise and movement breaks

 

For Adults

 

  • adjusting workplace environments

  • using noise-cancelling headphones

  • setting boundaries around sensory overwhelm

  • deep pressure techniques

  • sensory-friendly clothing

  • coaching for emotional regulation

 

For Everyone

 

  • self-awareness

  • advocating for needs

  • reducing shame

  • sensory-friendly environments

 

Small adjustments can create enormous comfort.


 

UK Organisations & Resources

 

 

Support is available at every stage for children, teenagers, and adults.



🌿 If you or someone you care about is living with SPD, you’re not alone. You can explore more free tools, articles, and supportive resources on the Joy & Purpose Coaching website.

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