What Does Sensory Integration Disorder Look Like?
Prior to diagnosis, it’s common for sufferers of SID to exhibit frustration, agitation, and even aggression. It’s also possible for untreated SID to affect sleep and self-esteem in negative ways. You may notice a person with SID also:
- Commonly covers their eyes or ears
- Enjoys chewing on non-food items
- Practices self-stimulating behavior like rocking back and forth or making repetitive noises
- Finds it difficult to identify sensations like pain, hunger, or the need to go to the bathroom
- Is easily overwhelmed
- Avoids certain clothing items or foods
- Overreacts or underreacts to certain sounds
- Exhibits behavioral problems
Like autism and other developmental conditions, the symptoms of Sensory Integration Disorder present on a spectrum. For some, the negative effects are mild. For others, the condition can cause extreme nausea, fear, and anxiety. When the symptoms of SID begin to affect a sufferer’s daily life, it’s time to seek professional help.
The worst-case scenario is for severe SID to go undiagnosed and untreated. In those cases, it’s common for the sufferer to withdraw from social situations to avoid discomfort or overstimulation. Unavoidable sensations, like bright lights or the sound of traffic, can keep a person home when they would otherwise be living a full life. For this reason, we recommend diagnostic testing and treatment to introduce and strengthen a sufferer’s coping skills.
Therapists
These are our therapists who are experienced in working with Special Needs.
