What is Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)?

The month of October commemorates National Sensory Processing Awareness Month. People with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), have trouble receiving and processing information that comes in through their senses. While many with SPD have other conditions, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, or Attention Deficiency Disorder, some do not.

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Also, while SPD is not considered a mental illness, many with the disorder struggle with mental health issues as well.

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Some common signs associated with SPD include:
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· Sensory Hypersensitivity: This is extreme sensitivity to stimuli such as lights, sounds, textures, tastes or smells.

· Sensory Hyposensitivity: On the other extreme, some with SPD have difficulty noticing or responding to sensory input seeming indifferent or having a high tolerance for pain, temperature extremes or other sensations.

· Sensory seeking or craving: Those with SPD may seem to have a constant need for sensory stimulation.

· Motor Coordination Difficulties: Clumsiness and challenges with all motor skills is common with those with SPD.

· Emotional and Behavioral Symptoms: Those with SPD may have emotional meltdowns in response to sensory overload or exhibit anxiety, depression or mood swings.

· Difficulty with Attention and Concentration

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At Flatrock, we have many residents who exhibit some or all of these signs of SPD, and we have sensory rooms, occupational therapists and other tools to help those residents mitigate the challenges of their disorder.