Living and working with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)
Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is a condition where the brain has difficulty processing and responding to sensory stimuli from the environment. While often associated with children, SPD can also affect adults, albeit in different ways. Here's how SPD can impact adults:
1. Sensory Overload:
Adults with SPD may experience sensory overload, where they become overwhelmed by sensory stimuli in their environment. This can lead to feelings of stress, anxiety, and discomfort, making it challenging to focus, concentrate, or engage in daily activities. Common triggers for sensory overload in adults may include loud noises, bright lights, crowded spaces, or strong smells.
2. Difficulty with Sensory Integration:
Sensory integration refers to the brain's ability to process and make sense of different sensory inputs simultaneously. Adults with SPD may have difficulty integrating sensory information, leading to challenges in coordinating movements, maintaining balance, or interpreting spatial relationships. This can affect activities such as driving, navigating crowded areas, or participating in sports or recreational activities.
3. Sensory Seeking or Avoidance Behaviours:
Adults with SPD may exhibit sensory seeking or avoidance behaviours as a way of coping with sensory challenges. Some individuals may seek out intense sensory experiences, such as rocking, spinning, or seeking out strong flavours or textures, to regulate their sensory system. Others may avoid sensory stimuli that trigger discomfort or overwhelm, such as avoiding crowded places, wearing certain fabrics, or limiting exposure to bright lights or loud noises. These behaviours can impact daily functioning and may interfere with social, occupational, or recreational activities.
4. Impact on Mental Health:
SPD can have significant implications for mental health and well-being in adults. Chronic sensory challenges can contribute to feelings of frustration, isolation, and low self-esteem. Adults with SPD may struggle to effectively communicate their sensory needs or may feel misunderstood or invalidated by others. Over time, untreated SPD may increase the risk of developing anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions.
5. Challenges in Daily Living:
Sensory processing difficulties can affect various aspects of daily living for adults. Simple tasks such as dressing or preparing meals may become overwhelming due to sensitivities to certain textures, smells, or sounds. Work environments with fluorescent lighting, open office layouts, or noisy surroundings may be particularly challenging for individuals with SPD, impacting productivity and job satisfaction.
6. Relationship and Social Challenges:
SPD can also impact relationships and social interactions for adults. Difficulty with sensory processing may affect one's ability to engage in social activities, attend events, or participate in group settings. Sensory sensitivities may be misunderstood by others, leading to conflicts or strained relationships. Educating friends, family members, and colleagues about SPD and its effects can help foster understanding and support.
7. Coping Strategies and Support:
Despite the challenges posed by SPD, adults can employ various coping strategies and seek support to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. Occupational therapy (OT) can be particularly beneficial for adults with SPD, helping them develop sensory regulation skills, adapt their environments, and learn effective coping strategies. Additionally, mindfulness techniques, relaxation exercises, and sensory-based activities can help adults with SPD manage stress and regulate their sensory systems.
Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) can impact adults in the workplace so lets explore suitable adjustments to how best organisations should accommodate their needs:
Sensory Overload in the Workplace:
Work environments can be particularly challenging for adults with SPD due to the presence of various sensory stimuli, such as fluorescent lighting, background noise, and crowded spaces. Sensory overload in the workplace can lead to decreased concentration, increased stress levels, and difficulties in completing tasks efficiently.
Sensory Sensitivities:
Individuals with SPD may have specific sensory sensitivities that affect their ability to work comfortably. For example, they may be sensitive to certain textures of clothing, temperature fluctuations, or the smell of cleaning products. These sensitivities can impact their comfort and focus throughout the workday.
Challenges with Social Interactions:
Social interactions in the workplace can also present challenges for adults with SPD. They may struggle with sensory aspects of communication, such as maintaining eye contact, interpreting non-verbal cues, or navigating conversations in noisy or crowded environments. This can affect their ability to collaborate with colleagues or participate in meetings and team activities.
Suitable Adjustments in the Workplace:
a. Flexible Work Environment:
Employers can consider implementing a flexible work environment that allows employees with SPD to modify their workspace to suit their sensory needs. This could include options for adjusting lighting, temperature, and seating arrangements, as well as providing noise-canceling headphones or quiet areas for individuals who require a break from sensory stimuli.
b. Accommodations for Sensory Sensitivities:
Employers can make accommodations to address specific sensory sensitivities of employees with SPD. For example, allowing employees to wear more comfortable clothing ( if uniform is required) or providing ergonomic office furniture can help create a more sensory-friendly workspace. Employers should also be open to discussing individual preferences and needs to tailor accommodations accordingly.
c. Clear Communication:
Clear and direct communication can help individuals with SPD navigate social interactions in the workplace more effectively. Employers can provide guidelines for communication etiquette, such as using written instructions or email communication for complex tasks, and encourage colleagues to be patient and understanding of differences in sensory processing.
d. Sensory Breaks:
Offering regular sensory breaks throughout the workday can help employees with SPD manage sensory overload and recharge their energy. Employers can encourage employees to take short breaks to engage in sensory-based activities, such as stretching, deep breathing exercises, or listening to calming music, to help regulate their sensory systems.
e. Education and Training:
Providing education and training on SPD can help raise awareness and foster understanding among colleagues and supervisors. Employers can offer workshops or informational sessions to educate staff about SPD, its impact on individuals in the workplace, and strategies for supporting colleagues with sensory processing difficulties.
Conclusion:
Navigating the workplace with Sensory Processing Disorder can present unique challenges for adults. By implementing suitable adjustments and accommodations, employers can create a more inclusive and supportive work environment that enables employees with SPD to thrive and contribute effectively. Recognising the diverse sensory needs of employees and fostering understanding and acceptance within the workplace can help create a more inclusive and equitable environment for all.
