An introduction to sensory differences and definitions

Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD): 

A neurological condition that causes the brain to have difficulty processing sensory inputs (e.g. sounds, smells, textures, tastes, etc.) 

Sensory Seeker: Under-sensitive to sensory inputs so seeks out more. Sensory seeking children tend to be constantly moving, spinning, climbing, spinning, etc. Sensory seeking adults might like loud music, prefer spicy foods, love to be touched/physical affection, etc. 

Sensory Sensitive: Over-sensitive to sensory inputs. Brain is unable to filter out inputs that neurotypical brains can. Sensory sensitive people often avoid loud noises, have difficulty with certain clothes or food due to texture, dislike physical touch, etc. 

And with sensory sensitivity, there is actually an *anxiety response* to sensory overstimulation. 

It's called 'sensory anxiety.' (Not formally recognized by the DSM, but informally used by many sensory sensitive people who have experienced this type of anxiety.) 

Many people with SPD have a mix of sensory needs. They might be over-sensitive to one type of input and under-sensitive to another. They might also have different sensory needs depending on their emotional state and what's going on around them. 

Discovering SPD and learning about my sensory needs changed my life. The shame I had felt for so many years finally washed away. I was also finally able to articulate my needs and advocate for myself.

I hope this information helps some of you in a similar way. 💞