Sensory Processing and Anxiety

Today we are going to discuss Anxiety in relation to Sensory Processing. If you are still a bit unsure about what Sensory Processing is, you can read more about it in this blog, or watch my YouTube video on Sensory Processing Disorder from the podcast here or here for an older but shorter one.

Anxiety is so widely discussed and is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Among those most affected by anxiety are children and individuals with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Understanding the challenges they face is crucial for providing effective support and learning how to manage these symptoms.

But first, let’s chat about what anxiety is?

Anxiety is a natural response to stress or danger, often described as a feeling of what’s to come, or a feeling that something bad is going to happen. While everyone (including children) experience anxiety from time to time, we all know that knot in your stomach before you make a big speech or while anticipating a life-changing event . For some, that feeling is overwhelming and constant, otherwise called an anxiety disorder.

Symptoms of anxiety can include:

• A fast heartbeat 
• Sweating, trembling, or shaking
• Difficulty breathing or a tightness in the chest
• Nausea 
• The feeling of a loss of control

Other Causes of Anxiety

It’s important to note that there are many causes of anxiety, including sensory processing. Here are some more to consider:

Genetics: A family history of anxiety disorders can increase the likelihood of a child developing anxiety. 

Environment: Stressful or traumatic events, such as parental divorce or bullying, can trigger anxiety.

Parenting Style: Overprotective or overly critical parenting can contribute to a child's anxiety, and can be carried into adulthood.

School/Work Pressure: Academic performance and social dynamics at school or work can be significant sources of stress.

Causes of Anxiety in Individuals with SPD

Sensory Overload: Everyday environments can become overwhelming when you're not as equipped to deal with them, leading to anxiety about encountering distressing stimuli.

Social Challenges: Difficulty in interpreting social cues, or a belief that social interactions are going to end poorly can both contribute to anxiety about or in social interactionss.

Routine Disruptions: Individuals with SPD often rely on routines to manage sensory input, and changes in their schedule can cause large amounts of anxiety, even when the changes are known in advance... and especially when they aren’t.

Self-Esteem Issues: Ongoing struggles with sensory processing can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem, contributing to anxiety.

Strategies for Managing Anxiety in Children and Individuals with SPD

• Getting individual feedback will help you understand manage anxiety from Sensory needs. Book a call if you would like to chat to us about how we can help.
• Creating a Safe Environment is really important. For those with SPD, minimizing sensory overload by creating sensory-friendly spaces can contribute to a decrease in anxiety.
• Routine and Predictability are important to keeping anxiety low where possible.
• Relaxation Techniques can help when met with unavoidable anxiety, and are good tools to implement in day-to-day life. Practices such as deep breathing, meditation, and calming techniques can help to manage stress and anxiety.
• Some tools can also help with tactile feedback and regulation in situations where anxiety needs a physical outlet. We have many recommendations on the Amazon Affiliate page, or join on a call to see which items might help more for your specific need.
• Programmes to help. There are many apps and online programmes that can soothe your anxiety and even reduce it. We have an affiliate partnership with a company called the Listening programme which have an anxiety reducing effect when used daily, which we offer to members.. 
• Education and Awareness: Educate family, friends, and educators about anxiety and SPD to encourage understanding.

Professional Support:

Seek help from mental health professionals when anxiety becomes overwhelming or persistent.

Occupational Therapy: either online, like with the Sensory Super System® or in person can be very beneficial. Understanding the sensory triggers that lead to anxiety can help you manage them more effectively. The SSS provides all you need to be able to assess, understand and work on managing these.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): This can be very effective for managing anxiety caused by negative thought patterns.