Different Sensory Needs for Adults with ADHD & How to Manage Them
Living with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) as an adult brings unique challenges, especially when sensory processing issues are present. Sensory processing refers to how our nervous system receives and interprets sensory information from the environment. Adults with ADHD often experience heightened or reduced sensitivity to sensory stimuli, referred to as:
Hyper-Responsiveness: Individuals might find everyday sounds, lights, or textures overwhelmingly intense, leading to anxiety and concentration difficulties.
Hypo-Responsiveness: Others may seek more sensory input, needing to touch objects, move around, or engage in intense activities to feel satisfied.
These sensory processing issues can exacerbate ADHD symptoms, making it crucial to address both to improve overall well-being and functionality.
Visual Sensory Needs:
Hyper-Responsiveness: Sensitivity to bright lights, fast-moving images, and crowded environments can cause headaches and eye strain. Manage by using dim lighting, sunglasses, and reducing screen brightness.
Hypo-Responsiveness: Under-sensitivity to visual stimuli may lead to difficulty noticing details. Manage by using vibrant colors, dynamic screensavers, or engaging in detailed visual activities like puzzles.
Auditory Sensory Needs:
Hyper-Responsiveness: Sensitivity to loud noises and background sounds can lead to stress and anxiety. Manage by using noise-canceling headphones, earplugs, or creating a quiet workspace.
Hypo-Responsiveness: Under-sensitivity to auditory stimuli may lead to seeking out noisy environments. Manage by engaging in activities with rich auditory input, like listening to music or podcasts.
Tactile Sensory Needs:
Hyper-Responsiveness: Sensitivity to certain textures or unexpected touch can cause discomfort. Manage by wearing soft, seamless clothing, removing tags, and using weighted blankets.
Hypo-Responsiveness: Under-sensitivity to touch may lead to a constant need to touch objects. Manage by incorporating activities that provide strong tactile input, like using textured fabrics or playdough.
Olfactory Sensory Needs:
Hyper-Responsiveness: Sensitivity to strong smells can be overwhelming. Manage by using unscented products, maintaining good ventilation, and carrying soothing scents like lavender.
Hypo-Responsiveness: Under-sensitivity to smells may lead to seeking out strong scents. Manage by using scented candles, essential oils, or engaging in activities like cooking.
Gustatory Sensory Needs:
Hyper-Responsiveness: Sensitivity to certain tastes or textures in foods can lead to picky eating. Manage by gradually introducing new foods and using mild flavors.
Hypo-Responsiveness: Under-sensitivity to taste may lead to a preference for strong flavors. Manage by incorporating a variety of strong flavors and textures into meals.
Proprioceptive Sensory Needs:
Hyper-Responsiveness: Over-sensitivity to body position and movement can cause discomfort. Manage by engaging in gentle activities like yoga and using weighted blankets.
Hypo-Responsiveness: Under-sensitivity to body position and movement may lead to constant fidgeting. Manage by incorporating activities that provide strong proprioceptive input, like weightlifting or running.
Vestibular Sensory Needs:
Hyper-Responsiveness: Sensitivity to movement can cause dizziness or nausea. Manage by gradually exposing oneself to movement activities and practicing balance exercises.
Hypo-Responsiveness: Under-sensitivity to movement may lead to a constant need for motion. Manage by providing opportunities for intense vestibular input through activities like trampolining or dancing.
Addressing sensory processing issues not only alleviates discomfort but also empowers individuals to thrive in their personal and professional lives.
-
Navigating Neuro-divergency and Authenticity in the Professional World
Embrace Unhelpful Thoughts and Continue Focusing on What Matters Most to You!
The Power of “And”: The Art of Balancing the Dreams and Limits of Our Inner Worlds!
Ace Your ACE Skills: Use Mindfulness Anywhere and Anytime
How to Effectively Handle and Reduce Work-Related Stress
Stress: Effects on Your Personal Life, Mental Wellbeing, and Physical Health
Search Our Other Blogs!
Interested in Online & In-Person Counseling for Neurodivergence, ADHD, or Anxiety?
If you’re a Marylander who knows that counseling is the direction you need to take, the therapists at LifeSpring Counseling Services are here to help. We offer online counseling services for mindfulness, depression, anxiety, trauma, and grief and loss. We also offer Brainspotting as a specialized service, and Brainspotting can be done online, too!
Here’s how you can get started! Online and in-person counseling for neurodivergence, ADHD, and anxiety aren’t the only services offered at our Monkton, MD office.
The counselors and social workers at our Maryland office also offer counseling services for trauma, grief and loss, boundary setting, communication skills, and difficult life transitions. We also offer specialized counseling services including Brainspotting and spiritually-integrated counseling. Because we are located next to several local universities, we also work with college students and international students.
Written by: Chelsea Cowden, LGPC
