Are Your Sensory Issues Sensory Processing Disorder?

This guide explores the signs, possible causes, and treatment options to help support people—especially children—with sensory issues.

From the feel of clothing tags to the hum of a busy room, we all experience sensory input every day. For most people, these sensations are simply part of life. But for some, sensory experiences can feel overwhelming because their brain has trouble interpreting or responding to sensory information like touch, sound, light, or movement—known as a sensory issue.

Sensory processing challenges can interfere with daily life, learning, or social interactions. When sensory sensitivities or under-responsiveness significantly affect behavior and development, it could be a sign of sensory processing disorder (SPD) or related conditions. Read on to learn what sensory processing is, how sensory issues present in people (especially children), and when these challenges might require professional support.

What is sensory processing?

Sensory processing refers to the way the nervous system receives, organizes, and responds to sensory input. While most people are familiar with the five basic senses—touch, hearing, taste, smell, and sight—sensory processing actually includes three additional systems:

• Proprioception: body awareness and movement
• Vestibular: balance and spatial orientation
• Interoception: internal body cues like hunger, temperature, and emotions

Together, these eight senses help us navigate and interact with the world around us.

Sensory issue vs. sensory processing disorder

Sensory issues are common and happen to many people—for instance, feeling overwhelmed by a loud concert or irritated by a scratchy clothing tag. For most, these experiences are occasional and manageable. However, when sensory challenges are persistent and significantly interfere with daily life, they may point to sensory processing disorder (SPD), a neurological condition in which the brain struggles to organize and respond appropriately to sensory input. 

SPD is especially common in children, who may be extremely sensitive to certain stimuli—like loud noises, bright lights, or strong smells—or, conversely, show little to no response and seek out extra stimulation. These patterns can lead kids to avoid or crave sensory experiences as a way of coping. Keep reading to learn about the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for sensory processing disorder.

While SPD is not formally recognized in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), and many experts view sensory issues as part of broader conditions like autism spectrum disorder (ASD), not everyone with sensory challenges has ASD. Still, the term “sensory processing disorder” is widely used in occupational therapy to identify patterns of sensory difficulty and guide treatment plans.

What are the signs and symptoms of sensory processing disorder?

SPD symptoms vary widely depending on how a child processes sensory input, but they generally fall into two categories: hypersensitivity (over-responsiveness) and hyposensitivity (under-responsiveness).

Hypersensitivity (sensory over-responsiveness)

Children with sensory hypersensitivity experience everyday sensations—like sounds, lights, touch, or smells—as overwhelming, intense, or even painful. Their nervous system reacts too strongly or for too long, making it hard to focus or feel calm. These children may avoid certain environments, withdraw from social situations, or become easily distressed by stimuli others hardly notice.

Common signs of sensory hypersensitivity include:

• Low pain tolerance
• Covering ears or eyes in response to noise or light
• Avoiding hugs or light touch
• Strong reactions to certain food textures
• Emotional outbursts or frequent meltdowns
• Trouble focusing or staying regulated
• Clumsiness or poor coordination
• Refusal to wear certain clothing (due to texture or tags)

Hyposensitivity (sensory under-responsiveness)

On the other end of the spectrum, children with hyposensitivity may not notice or respond to sensory input in a typical way. They might appear unfazed by sensations like pain, noise, or temperature, and often seek out extra stimulation to feel grounded or engaged. These behaviors can look impulsive, inattentive, or disruptive—but they’re often a form of sensory self-regulation.

Common signs of sensory hyposensitivity include:

• High pain tolerance
• Frequent bumping into people or objects
• Excessive touching or mouthing objects
• Seeking deep pressure (e.g., tight hugs, squeezing)
• Rocking, spinning, or other repetitive movements
• Ignoring personal space
• Appearing distracted or disconnected from their environment

Recognizing whether a child is over- or under-responsive—or sometimes both—is the first step toward understanding their sensory needs and supporting their development.

What causes sensory issues in children?

The exact cause of sensory processing issues is unknown. Researchers believe it involves differences in how the brain’s sensory pathways process and organize information.

Sensory difficulties are frequently observed in autistic individuals, but they can also be linked to:

• Premature birth
• Low birth weight
• Parental stress during pregnancy
• Prenatal exposure to alcohol or drugs
• Environmental factors like chemical exposure or insufficient sensory experiences in early childhood
• Possible abnormal brain activity affecting sensory responses

Are sensory issues linked to other conditions?

While SPD is debated as a standalone diagnosis, sensory challenges are often associated with other conditions, including:

• Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Schizophrenia
• Sleep disorders and sleep deprivation
• Developmental delays
• Traumatic brain injury (TBI)

It’s important to note that sensory-related hyperactivity in children with SPD differs from hyperactivity seen in ADHD. SPD behaviors are often driven by sensory-seeking or sensory avoidance rather than attention-regulation difficulties.

How is sensory processing disorder diagnosed?

Diagnosing SPD can be challenging, as it isn’t a formal medical diagnosis with standardized criteria. Instead, occupational therapists who specialize in sensory integration assess a child’s behaviors and responses to sensory input. They observe how the child reacts to sights, sounds, touch, and movement, interview caregivers about developmental and daily challenges, and use tools to gather data. This helps identify patterns—such as over-responsivity, under-responsivity, or sensory seeking—and guides personalized intervention plans.

What’s the treatment for sensory issues?

While there’s no one-size-fits-all treatment for sensory processing issues, several kinds of treatment may be beneficial:

1. Therapy 

Occupational therapy (OT) is often the first line of support. Therapists use play-based activities to help children gradually build tolerance to sensory input and develop practical strategies for managing overwhelming sensations in daily life. Some children may also benefit from sensory integration therapy, a specialized form of OT that targets the brain’s ability to process and respond to sensory information. In some cases, physical therapy is used to develop a “sensory diet”—a personalized routine of physical activities that provide the stimulation a child needs to stay focused and regulated.

2. Parental support 

Parental support plays a critical role in treatment. Parents can reinforce therapy goals at home by establishing predictable routines, creating sensory-friendly environments, and encouraging children to express their sensory needs. Teaching kids to self-advocate—by asking for breaks, using tools like noise-canceling headphones, or recognizing when they feel overstimulated—can build confidence and emotional regulation skills over time.

3. School support

In the school setting, support may come through an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan. These plans can provide access to school-based occupational therapy, as well as classroom accommodations like alternative seating, reduced visual or auditory distractions, or scheduled sensory breaks. Collaborating with teachers and support staff can help ensure that the child’s needs are recognized and addressed throughout the school day.

When to see a doctor for sensory issues

While SPD isn’t officially recognized in the DSM-5, that doesn’t mean families should wait to seek help. Consult a pediatrician or developmental specialist if:

• Behaviors significantly disrupt daily life (eating, sleeping, hygiene)
• Symptoms suddenly worsen
• Sensory reactions are very difficult to manage
• The child’s learning is affected by sensory challenges
• There are safety concerns due to sensory behaviors

In short, it’s a good idea to consult a pediatrician or developmental specialist if sensory behaviors disrupt daily life, interfere with learning, or pose safety concerns. 

How Charlie Health can help

If you or a loved one are struggling with sensory issues, Charlie Health is here to help. Charlie Health’s Virtual Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) provides more than once-weekly mental health treatment for dealing with serious mental health conditions, including sensory issues, childhood trauma, and more. Our expert clinicians incorporate evidence-based therapies into person counseling, family therapy, and group sessions. With treatment, managing sensory issues and other mental health concerns is possible. Fill out the form below or give us a call to start healing today.