What Is Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)?

Sensory Processing Disorder affects more than 10% of the world’s population. Keep reading to find out what causes this phenomenon and learn some techniques to cope with this debilitating disorder.

What is Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)?

Sensory Processing Disorder is a condition that affects how people sense the world around them. People with SPD have trouble processing information from their senses, which can cause problems with everyday tasks like eating, dressing, and bathing.

Many people with SPD go undiagnosed because their symptoms are subtle and can vary greatly from person to person. SPD can affect all areas of life, but it has the biggest impact on a child’s ability to function day-to-day. Children with SPD may struggle in school or have problems making friends because they find socializing difficult. They may also have trouble regulating their emotions and behavior.

What are the symptoms of SPD?

Symptoms of SPD can vary depending on the person, but can include problems with balance and coordination, difficulty with movement, and problems with sensory processing. Other common symptoms include poor posture, clumsiness, and trouble with handwriting.

There are many symptoms of Sensory Processing Disorder, and each person experiences them differently. For example, one person with SPD might be very sensitive to noise and be unable to focus in a classroom because of the loud sounds coming from the hallway, while another person might not be able to filter out car radios when walking down the street.

Some people with SPD experience sensory overload, which is when there are multiple competing stimuli present at once. This can be incredibly overwhelming for them and can lead to things like inattention and hyperactivity. Other people with SPD may experience sensory underload, which is when they’re not able to dull outside stimuli enough so that they can pay attention or engage in activities. They may also avoid bright lights, loud sounds, and touch because these things can be highly distracting for them.

People with SPD often have trouble paying attention in school or on the street, and they may lash out at their playmates. Their playtime can be ruined, as well as the rest of their day. It’s important to note that SPD is a biological disorder associated with dysregulation, while SPS – though not associated with dysregulation – is a trait characterized by increased awareness and sensitivity to the environment

How is SPD diagnosed?

There is no one definitive test for SPD, as it is a diagnosis of exclusion. This means that SPD is diagnosed after other possible causes of a child’s symptoms have been ruled out. A variety of tests and evaluations may be used to help make a diagnosis, including a physical exam, hearing and vision tests, genetic testing, and psychological evaluations.

SPD can be difficult to diagnose because many parents don’t know what is wrong with their children. In some cases, a diagnosis of SPD can provide understanding and meaning to the difficulties that children have experienced. It is important to find an Occupational Therapist who is trained in Sensory Integration to get a correct diagnosis of SPD. Not all Occupational Therapists are trained in this area and may not address the underlying causes of some of the more obvious difficulties e.g. handwriting, attention, social, play or motor abilities.

The SPD is diagnosed through evaluation of sensory processing ability. This assessment can be done through tools such as Sensational Kids OT which provides information on a child’s sensory processing status and potential diagnosis.

What are the treatment options for SPD?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer for the treatment of SPD. What works for one person may not work for another. However, there are a few common treatments that have been shown to be effective.

Medication and psychotherapy are also common treatments for SPD. Some people find relief from taking medication such as stimulants or antidepressants. Others find that talking therapy helps them understand and cope with their disorder. It’s important to work closely with your doctor to figure out what treatment options might be best for you.

Alternative treatments, such as acupuncture and craniosacral manipulation, are also popular among people with SPD. While there is no scientific evidence that these methods are effective, some people feel they provide relief from the symptoms of SPD.

How can parents help their child with SPD?

There are a few ways that parents can help their child with SPD. One way is to provide a calm and organized home environment. This will help the child feel more comfortable and in control. Parents can also help their child by providing positive reinforcement when the child does something that is difficult for them, such as completing a task or behaving in a way that is more typical for their age group.

If you suspect that your child may have Sensory Processing Disorder, it’s important to get them evaluated by a professional. However, there are some techniques which can be used in the meantime to help alleviate some of the stress associated with SPD. For example, mindfulness can be a great way for children to focus on their current surroundings and how they’re feeling in their bodies. This allows them to take a step back and reassess the situation at hand.

Parents will gain insight into the process of SPD and learn how to appropriately respond. Each child is different; so parents will explore what works best for their individual child. When your child is feeling overwhelmed with gadgets, encourage them to be active. Try playing nature sounds or going for a walk in the park to calm down. Alternatively, take your child swimming because it’s a great way for them to get some exercise while also calming down.”

But if your child’s sensory overload is the result of a busy environment, take them away to a calm space with few distractions. Ultimately, it depends on the scenario in question.

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Last Updated on December 23, 2022 by Neurodadversity