Embracing Sensory Processing Awareness Month
October marks Sensory Processing Awareness Month, a dedicated time to bring attention to Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) and celebrate neurodiversity. Join us this October and beyond as we embrace Sensory Processing Awareness Month. Imagine a world where the senses are like a symphony, harmoniously playing together. For many, this is their reality. However, for those with SPD, the world can be a cacophony of overwhelming sensations or a muted, indistinct blur. In this blog post, we take a deeper look into SPD, exploring what it is, its impact, and why awareness and acceptance matter.
What is Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)?
Sensory Processing Disorder, or SPD, is a neurological condition that affects how an individual's nervous system processes and responds to sensory information from the environment. Sensory inputs, such as sight, sound, taste, touch, and smell, are integral to our daily experiences. For most people, these sensations are processed seamlessly, but for those with SPD, it's a different story.
Types of Sensory Sensitivities:
SPD manifests in various ways, with individuals experiencing sensory sensitivities differently. Some common types include:
Sensory Over-Responsivity: In this case, sensory inputs can feel overwhelming. Bright lights might be blinding, everyday noises can sound unbearably loud, and certain textures can feel like sandpaper against the skin.
Sensory Under-Responsivity: On the flip side, some individuals with SPD may have difficulty sensing things in their environment. They might require intense sensory experiences to register sensations, leading to seemingly restless or impulsive behaviors.
Sensory Seeking: Individuals with this pattern actively seek out sensory input. They might enjoy intense physical sensations or crave specific tastes and textures.
Why Awareness Matters:
Understanding SPD is pivotal in creating a more inclusive society. It's not a choice or a preference; it's a part of an individual's neurodivergent makeup. By raising awareness, we can achieve several important goals such as:
Foster Empathy: Awareness encourages empathy. When we comprehend the challenges faced by those with SPD, we can approach them with patience, understanding, and compassion.
Reduce Stigma: Breaking down stereotypes and misconceptions about SPD helps reduce the stigma associated with sensory differences. This, in turn, promotes a more inclusive and accepting society.
Provide Support: Awareness enables individuals with SPD to access the support and accommodations they need to thrive. It also encourages research and innovation in treatments and interventions.
Celebrate Neurodiversity: Just as we celebrate diversity in all its forms, recognizing and embracing neurodiversity, including SPD, enriches our collective human experience.
Resources to learn more about SPD:
Explore this children's book review and step into the world of SPD through the eyes of a child.
Add “TOO MUCH!: An Overwhelming Day” by Jolene Gutiérrez to your family or school library.
Take a deeper look at SPD in this detailed article.
Read the full definition of SPD and Sensory Systems in our Glossary.
Takeaways
As we observe Sensory Processing Awareness Month, let's remember that the world is a diverse place, and our experiences of it can vary greatly. Sensory Processing Disorder is but one facet of this diversity. By understanding SPD, advocating for acceptance, and celebrating neurodiversity, we create a world where everyone, regardless of their sensory processing differences, can shine and be authentically themselves. It's a world where our shared symphony becomes richer with every unique note.
#SensoryProcessingAwareness #Neurodiversity #InclusionForAll
