Sensory Sensitivities in Neurodivergent Women
For many neurodivergent women, the world can feel like it’s turned up to eleven. What most people perceive as normal daily input – the hum of a refrigerator, the texture of a sweater, the brightness of a store – can be intensely amplified. This is a common aspect of neurodivergence known as sensory sensitivities, and it’s particularly prevalent in conditions like autism and ADHD. It’s not about being picky or dramatic; it’s a difference in how the nervous system processes sensory information.
The Two Sides of Sensory Processing
Sensory sensitivities aren’t just about being overstimulated. They can manifest in two key ways:
- Hypersensitivity (Over-Responsiveness): This is when a person is overwhelmed by a specific sensation. Sounds are too loud, lights are too bright, and certain textures feel like a physical assault. This can lead to anxiety, stress, and a need to escape the environment. For example, a woman might find the constant fluorescent hum in an office unbearable or be unable to wear certain fabrics.
- Hyposensitivity (Under-Responsiveness): This is the opposite – a person may need more sensory input to feel a sensation. They might not notice a cut or a burn until someone points it out, or they may seek out intense sensations, like loud music, strong flavors, or tight hugs, to feel regulated.
Sensory Overload in Daily Life
For neurodivergent women, navigating a world built for a different sensory experience can be exhausting. The cumulative effect of constant sensory stress – from the tag on a shirt to the chatter in a coffee shop – can lead to sensory overload. This is a state of intense overstimulation that can trigger a meltdown or a shutdown.
Many neurodivergent women become experts at masking, or hiding their distress. They might pretend not to be bothered by a loud noise or an uncomfortable texture, but the internal struggle is very real. This constant effort to appear “normal” is a major source of fatigue and stress.
Tips for Managing Sensitivities
If you are a neurodivergent woman dealing with sensory sensitivities, or you know someone who is, here are a few simple strategies:
- Know Your Triggers: Pay attention to what causes you distress. Is it certain sounds, lights, or smells? Identifying your triggers is the first step toward managing them.
- Use Tools: Noise-canceling headphones, sunglasses, and comfortable, seamless clothing can make a world of difference.
- Create a Safe Space: Have a quiet, low-sensory area at home where you can decompress and recharge.
- Communicate Your Needs: It can be hard, but let friends, family, or colleagues know what you need. “I need to take a break from this loud room” is a valid and important statement.
Understanding and accommodating sensory sensitivities is crucial. It’s about creating a more inclusive world that recognises and respects diverse ways of experiencing it.