Sensory Hypersensitivity

What Are Sensory Particularities?
IN BRIEF

Sensory hypersensitivity occurs when the brain gives extra importance to a particular sense. For example, someone with auditory hypersensitivity may be highly sensitive to sounds and feel overwhelmed, especially in places like supermarkets where multiple sources of noise occur simultaneously, last a long time, are very loud, or simply unexpected. Hypersensitivity can be exhausting for those who experience it. This often results in strong reactions, particularly in autistic people. Fortunately, there are accessible tools and strategies to help manage sensory information more effectively.

Definition of Sensory Hypersensitivity

Too much stimulation comes from one or more senses, and the brain struggles to process it all. The brain is constantly receiving sensory input from different parts of the body. When it has difficulty filtering and handling the overwhelming number of signals, it can lead to heightened reactions to these stimuli.

Scenario

Jolene is in class and trying to focus on her work, but she hears sniffles, the sound of erasers rubbing on paper, chairs scraping the floor, and conversations in the hallway. On top of that, there are a variety of smells—soaps, shampoos, perfumes worn by some students, and sometimes even unpleasant odors. The fluorescent lights are harsh on her eyes, so she tries to block the light with her hand, but keeping her arm raised irritates her because of the fabric of her sleeve. Before she can even start answering the questions on her test, she is already dealing with sensory overload—something completely unrelated to what is being evaluated.

What Are the Consequences of Sensory Hypersensitivity?

Not only can sensory hypersensitivities be overwhelming, but in many cases, they can be distressing and prevent a person from reaching their full potential, building relationships, participating in activities, or even holding a job. They can cause fatigue, irritability, anxiety, and a great deal of frustration. However, solutions exist.

How to Manage Sensory Hypersensitivity?

Solutions for managing sensory hypersensitivity are often simple to implement. Small adjustments, scheduled breaks, or a more respectful approach to sensory needs can make a significant difference.

Breaks

Plan regular breaks to allow the brain to process excess information and regain balance.

Tools

Use adaptive tools such as noise-canceling earmuffs, weighted vests, comfortable clothing, tinted glasses, chewable objects, and more.

Respect

The individual must respect their own limits, and their environment should also take these into account.

Research

There are many strategies developed by others who have experienced similar challenges. The results can be surprising. Solutions for each sense are available on this site.

Environment

A calm and less stimulating setting helps improve tolerance to sensory input.

Rehabilitation

In some cases, professionals can offer sensory rehabilitation while respecting the person’s abilities, needs, and desires.

My most challenging sensory hypersensitivity is related to hearing. I use industrial-style noise-blocking earmuffs for loud and persistent sounds, like when an alarm system company is conducting tests. I have musician’s earplugs to help me interact in noisier environments, such as when I play sports in a gymnasium. At home, I use noise-canceling headphones. I avoid going to supermarkets when possible, or I make my visits very quick. Fortunately, online ordering with curbside pickup is now an option, which is a great solution. Whenever possible, I give myself regular breaks from ambient noise. In my household, no one forces others to listen to their audio content.

Valérie Jessica, 45, autistic

The So-Called “Comfort Zone”

There is a widespread belief that people should constantly push themselves out of their comfort zone. However, for autistic people, this “comfort zone” is rarely even reached. Autistic individuals are continuously adapting to an environment that is often hostile and not designed for them. Forcing someone to go beyond limits they have already exceeded can worsen their hypersensitivity.

Caution

Too much sensory deprivation can have the opposite effect, making the person even more intolerant to stimuli. The goal is to find a balance—one that allows the person to reach their full potential while respecting their capacities and goals.