What is sensory processing disorder?
According to WebMD, “Sensory processing disorder is a condition in which the brain has trouble receiving and responding to information that comes in through the senses.” (Goodman, Brenda, “Sensory Processing Disorder”, March 14th, 2023, https://www.webmd.com/children/sensory-processing-disorder)
How it works
Our brains are always receiving information from our environment and filtering through what is not a threat and what can be ignored in order to continue to scan for new information.
For example, as I write this post, I can hear the cats’ water fountain bubbling, there is a lamp on the nightstand that is on, I can feel the keyboard keys under my fingers to ensure I am in the right position, and I can feel the weight of the blankets covering me.
However, my brain moves these things to the background so I can focus on what I am writing. I start to tune out some of these things as I become more focused on the task at hand.
When someone has sensory processing disorder, their brain does not process all of these things and send them to the background. Instead, they are constantly hearing the water fountain bubbling, always noticing how bright the light is from the lamp, or feeling the touch of the blanket.
Diagnosis of SPD
Sensory processing disorder is most commonly diagnosed in addition to another diagnosis such as Autism, Anxiety, ADHD and is there for not a “stand alone diagnosis”. However, there are children who have just sensory processing disorder and no other disorder.
Diagnosis begins with an examination and search for signs by a professional whether physician or an Occupational Therapist trained in sensory processing disorder. There are several standardized assessment tools available to help aid in diagnosing SPD.
Treatment of SPD
There is not a one size fits all treatment for SPD. There is no medication that can help alleviate the symptoms of SPD and the lack treatment options is due to the fact that this disorder is not a diagnosis of its own.
However, there are things you can do to help alleviate the symptoms. Some of these things may include sensory integration and occupational therapy.