Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) - with specific reference to sensory defensiveness or avoidance - is the brain’s inability to make sense of the input it is receiving from the outside world (and sometimes even from inside the rest of the body). These inputs are received via the body's five sense (sight, sound, taste, touch and smell) as well as its vestibular system (movement), and the body’s position given different movements.
For a child with SPD, all (or most) inputs received are perceived as a threat by default. Sights, sounds, movements, smells, touches, etc. all represent immediate and imminent danger. The infant/child with SPD is in an almost constant state of heightened anxiety (heightened blood pressure, pulse rate and increased levels of adrenalin). The brain is telling the body to panic.
Hein-Chris, as a newborn, had a single response given his limited range of reaction, and that was screaming (violent crying leading to shortness of breath, and sometimes vomiting). As an infant with SPD grows, his/her response to the anxiety and panic will take other (endless) forms like covering ears, hiding, lashing out violently, running away, hitting, spitting, vomiting, crying uncontrollably, kicking, and the list goes on.
Always remember that your infant/child with SPD is intensely anxious (likely for no apparent reason) and unable to settle without your immediate calming input.
Imagine living in constant fear with your heart pounding in your chest. Your infant/child with SPD lives in this state constantly, and needs immediate intervention to help him/her settle.
SPD cannot be cured, but your child can be taught to cope with it appropriately. If he/she is not treated and taught, a life-long battle with anxiety disorder and depression is likely inevitable.
For a child with SPD, all (or most) inputs received are perceived as a threat by default. Sights, sounds, movements, smells, touches, etc. all represent immediate and imminent danger. The infant/child with SPD is in an almost constant state of heightened anxiety (heightened blood pressure, pulse rate and increased levels of adrenalin). The brain is telling the body to panic.
Hein-Chris, as a newborn, had a single response given his limited range of reaction, and that was screaming (violent crying leading to shortness of breath, and sometimes vomiting). As an infant with SPD grows, his/her response to the anxiety and panic will take other (endless) forms like covering ears, hiding, lashing out violently, running away, hitting, spitting, vomiting, crying uncontrollably, kicking, and the list goes on.
Always remember that your infant/child with SPD is intensely anxious (likely for no apparent reason) and unable to settle without your immediate calming input.
Imagine living in constant fear with your heart pounding in your chest. Your infant/child with SPD lives in this state constantly, and needs immediate intervention to help him/her settle.
SPD cannot be cured, but your child can be taught to cope with it appropriately. If he/she is not treated and taught, a life-long battle with anxiety disorder and depression is likely inevitable.
