Sensory Processing Disorder: Navigating Life with Heightened Sensitivity in Modern Society

Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is a neurological condition where individuals struggle to process and respond to sensory stimuli in a typical way. Everyday sensations such as sound, light, touch, and smell can become overwhelming and intolerable for those with SPD. In Japan, recent estimates suggest that over 450,000 people are affected by SPD, and this number is rising annually. Individuals with SPD experience significant challenges in their daily lives, ranging from difficulties in social interactions to struggles in work and academic environments, as they navigate the overstimulation caused by their heightened sensory sensitivities.

Living with SPD: Sensory Overload in Daily Life

People with SPD face unique sensory challenges that interfere with their ability to comfortably navigate the world around them. For example, those with auditory sensitivity may find everyday noises intolerable. Sounds such as the rumble of a train, the honking of car horns, or even casual conversations can cause overwhelming anxiety or headaches. These noises, which most people perceive as background sounds, can feel intensely invasive, making it difficult for individuals with SPD to focus or relax. Consequently, many choose to avoid crowded public places…