Navigating the World: Understanding Sensory Sensitivities
We frequently associate autism with social challenges and communication difficulties, but for many adults on the autism spectrum, sensory sensitivities can be equally significant. As a psychiatrist, I'm here to shed light on this often-overlooked aspect of autism in adults and discuss how understanding it can make a world of difference.
The Sensory World of Autism
Imagine walking into a bustling cafe, where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingles with the hum of conversation and the clatter of dishes. For most people, this is a typical scene, and though it can be a lot, it might be easily navigated. For adults with autism though, such an environment can be overwhelming, and even distressing. Sensory sensitivities in autism mean that everyday sensations can seem magnified, causing discomfort or anxiety.
Common Sensory Sensitivities in Autism
Auditory Hypersensitivity: Adults with autism may have an enhanced sense of hearing, making everyday sounds, like the ticking of a clock or the buzzing of fluorescent lights or others chewing, unbearably loud. This can lead to sensory overload and stress.
Tactile Sensitivities: Some individuals experience extreme discomfort with certain textures, fabrics, or physical sensations. Even a seemingly innocuous tag on clothing can feel incredibly itchy and prickly, and the textures of many foods can be disgusting and distressing.
Visual Sensitivities: Bright lights, flashing screens, or crowded visual environments can be overwhelming, causing distress or even physical pain. Other people with autism might find they are fascinated with bright or flashing lights, mirrors, or other sights.
Olfactory and Gustatory Sensitivities: Heightened senses of taste and smell can make certain foods, perfumes, or odours unbearable, leading to a restricted diet or a preference for odour-neutral environments.
Temperature: some people over heat and find they wear minimal or short clothing in freezing weather, and in summer over-heat terribly.
Pain: some people with autism are under-responsive to pain, and this can even be a factor in the increased rate of self-harm in some people with autism, though it is not the driving factor in self-harm, which might be a maladaptive, unhealthy means of “regulating” or reducing emotional pain.
The Impact of Sensory Sensitivities
Sensory sensitivities can have profound effects on the daily lives of adults with autism. They may struggle with sensory overload, leading to heightened anxiety, “meltdowns”, or withdrawal from social situations. The effort required to navigate a world filled with sensory triggers can be exhausting, sometimes leading to burnout and mental health challenges.
Understanding and Supporting Adults with Autism
Listen and Communicate: Open and empathetic communication is key. Adults with autism may not always be able to verbalise their sensory experiences, but being receptive to non-verbal cues and actively seeking their input can make a significant difference.
Create Sensory-Friendly Environments: Whenever possible, adapt environments to accommodate sensory sensitivities. Dimmer lighting, quiet spaces, and sensory-friendly tools like noise-cancelling headphones can be invaluable. Sometimes, working with an Occupational Therapist can be helpful in managing the physical environment and better adapting to it.
Respect Boundaries: Respect an individual's boundaries regarding touch, textures, or sensory experiences. Avoid forcing them into situations that cause extreme discomfort.
Therapeutic Support: Seek the help of therapists and psychiatrists who specialise in autism. They can provide strategies to manage sensory sensitivities and develop coping mechanisms.
Understanding sensory sensitivities in adults with autism is a vital step toward creating a more inclusive and accommodating world. As a psychiatrist, my mission is to shed light on all facets of autism and offer support to those who need it. By acknowledging and addressing sensory sensitivities, we can empower individuals with autism to navigate the world with confidence, comfort, and a greater sense of wellbeing.