Have you ever experienced that instant when something in your surroundings makes you feel so uncomfortable that you're tempted to freak out, throw up, or bolt entirely? Each of us has certain sensory triggers that can rattle our calm more easily (yet these also offer insights into experiencing neurodiversity).
From the sensation of holding a terracotta pot to the noise produced by a slow-speed audio clip, these are the sensory triggers that prompt us to seek refuge. Do you also encounter such sensory warning signs?
Utilizing a glass nail file
It turns out that a glass nail file is quite universally unpleasant. Our managing editor, Carrie, expressed her strong dislike for them, comparing the experience to "nails on a chalkboard." Megan, our associate editor, added, "Oh yeah, I forgot about glass nail files! They’re definitely revolting!"
Touching Super Soft Yarn
Soft yarn is typically thought to be warm and cozy, isn’t it? It seems like it should be so for many folks, yet some specific yarn textures can actually trigger nausea for me. When I cringe away from a particular type of sweater fabric, others might not fully understand my reaction; however, they usually show somewhat greater acceptance towards these kinds of sensitivities.
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Listening to Music from Dual Sources simultaneously
Carrie dislikes multiple audio sources playing simultaneously. She explains, "When both the television and a phone are emitting music, my mind gets confused. Occasionally, I manage to focus on just one sound by blocking an ear, but typically, I end up muting one of them."
Eating Mashed Potatoes
My son has autism, and dealing with sensory issues is an everyday occurrence for him. What consistently amazes me is how much he dislikes mashed potatoes. Despite being a classic comforting dish served during Thanksgiving, they seem to be a big no-no for him. According to him, the feel of the mashed potatoes in his mouth is so unpleasant that it triggers a strong nausea response. As you might expect, he simply avoids eating them when they're placed on the dining table.
Need to Know
It's quite typical for individuals with autism, sensory processing disorder , along with other neurodivergent conditions, often experience sensory difficulties. However, experiencing issues with specific textures, flavors, noises, and scents isn’t exclusive to neurodivergent individuals. It depends entirely on how an individual’s brain processes the sensory information they encounter.
Listening to People Eat
Many individuals dislike hearing others eat, but it can be particularly difficult for those with sensory issues in that domain. Megan finds it especially bothersome when people slurp soup or cereal; she thinks to herself, "Why not just scoop the entire spoon into your mouth?"
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Feeling Wet Wood
Textures are a big source of sensory ick, but the specific ones that bug us can be kind of unique. "My ex used to not be able to touch wet wood - even like wooden spoons and stuff after being washed," Carrie says.
Hearing Voices Played Faster or Slower Than Normal
For me, listening to a recorded voice being played at a pace quicker or slower than usual—or even someone deliberately speaking extremely fast or very slowly—immediately triggers a panic response, often forcing me to exit the situation. As such, I avoid speeding up my podcast playback altogether.
Touching Terra Cotta Pots
How an object feels when you touch it can greatly affect your senses; for Megan, this feeling is particularly intense with terra cotta. She explains, "The roughness of unglazed ceramic or terra cotta pots makes me feel nauseous."
Handling Cheap Paper Napkins
It's my son's job to set the table, but he can only stand doing it if I buy the expensive paper napkins. Fast food napkins or cheaper grocery store ones make him panic a little bit. He's been known to grab some rubber gloves when he has to use rough paper towel too.
Listening to Other People Repeat Phrases
Megan shared that she can't tolerate other people's repeated phrases in conversation. "When I clock someone's vocal tic (for instance, saying "you know?" or "for sure" etc..), every time I hear it afterwards makes me angry," she said.
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Advice for Managing Sensory Difficulties
Feeling somewhat anxious, angry, or maybe even queasy due to the sensory inputs around you? Here are some strategies that might help:
- Exit the scenario if possible. Provided it doesn’t adversely affect your life, simply remove yourself from the environment once they begin employing glass nail files or lowering the audio speed.
- Set up a barricade. Anything that reduces your sensory input works as well. Consider using earplugs, rubber gloves, or similar items.
- Inhale deeply. Often, sensory overload might trigger a fight-or-flight reaction. Calm your nervous system by taking a slow, deep breath.
- Discussing it openly is important because each person experiences distinct and particular triggers, which can make dealing with them seem incredibly lonely. Sharing your struggles with others might provide some relief.
You Are Not Alone
Regardless of the sensory issues that bother you, it’s reassuring to know you’re not alone in your challenges. Everyone faces their own difficulties, and by sharing our experiences, we can improve our collective ability to understand one another.
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