ADHD and Sensory Processing

ADHD is widely recognised for its impacts on attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity, but sensory processing issues can also be a significant part of the experience for many individuals.

Sensory processing refers to the way the brain interprets and responds to sensory stimuli from the environment—sights, sounds, smells, textures, and more. 

People with ADHD often have heightened or altered sensory sensitivity, which can make certain everyday situations overwhelming or uncomfortable. 

Sensory Overload
Many individuals with ADHD experience sensory overload, where their brain becomes overwhelmed by too much sensory input at once. This heightened sensitivity can make environments that are noisy, busy, or visually cluttered particularly difficult to handle. 

For example, a loud, crowded restaurant might be overwhelming due to the combination of background chatter, bright lights, and multiple smells. In situations like these, people with ADHD may feel anxious, irritable, or unable to concentrate because their brain is struggling to process and filter all the sensory information it’s receiving. 

Sensory overload can affect daily life in various ways, from making it hard to focus in class or at work to creating discomfort in social settings. When overwhelmed by sensory input, people with ADHD may shut down, become easily frustrated, or act impulsively as a coping mechanism. 

Hypersensitivity vs. Hyposensitivity
Not everyone with ADHD experiences sensory processing difficulties in the same way. 

Some individuals are hypersensitive to stimuli—meaning they are easily overwhelmed by sensations such as loud noises, strong smells, or rough textures. Others may be hyposensitive, meaning they seek out more intense sensory experiences because they don’t respond as strongly to typical stimuli. 

For example, someone with hyposensitivity might enjoy loud music or prefer strong flavours in their food, as their brain requires more stimulation to feel satisfied. 

These differences in sensory processing can contribute to behavioural patterns in people with ADHD. Those who are hypersensitive may avoid situations that are too stimulating, while those who are hyposensitive might engage in sensory-seeking behaviours, like fidgeting or touching objects, to feel more engaged with their surroundings. 

Sensory Processing and Emotional Regulation
Sensory issues in individuals with ADHD are closely tied to emotional regulation.

When sensory input becomes overwhelming, it can lead to emotional outbursts, irritability, or difficulty managing stress. For example, an individual might feel fine in a quiet environment but become agitated in a chaotic one, making it harder to control emotions or behave appropriately.

This connection between sensory input and emotions is particularly important in social situations. A person with ADHD may find a family gathering stressful not just because of the social demands but also due to sensory factors, like loud conversations or uncomfortable seating. 

Understanding this sensory-emotional link can help individuals with ADHD develop strategies to manage their environment and emotional responses more effectively. 

Managing Sensory Processing Issues with ADHD
While sensory sensitivities can be challenging, there are ways to manage these issues effectively. 

One approach is to create sensory-friendly environments by reducing overstimulation. For example, noise-cancelling headphones or dimming the lights can make overwhelming spaces more tolerable. Sensory breaks, where an individual steps away from a stimulating environment to a quieter space, can also help reset their senses and restore focus. 

For those who experience sensory-seeking behaviours, incorporating fidget toys or textured objects can provide a helpful outlet during tasks that require focus. 

Occupational therapy can also offer tailored strategies for individuals struggling with sensory processing issues, teaching them ways to balance sensory input and avoid overload.