We all experience the world through our senses.

The sound of music, the brightness of lights, the feel of different textures — these are things most people take in and process without thinking. But for some young people, these everyday sensations can feel very different.

This is what we mean by sensory sensitivities.

Understanding sensory sensitivities is an important step towards building empathy, improving support, and creating environments where all young people can feel comfortable and included.

What Are Sensory Sensitivities?

Sensory sensitivities relate to how the brain takes in and responds to information from the senses.

These include:

• Sight
• Sound
• Touch
• Taste
• Smell
• Movement and balance
• Body awareness

For most people, the brain filters and organises this information automatically. However, for some individuals, this process works differently — affecting how they experience and respond to the world around them.

Sensory sensitivities are not caused by problems with the senses themselves (such as eyesight or hearing), but by how the brain interprets sensory input.

Different Types of Sensory Sensitivity

Sensory experiences can vary widely, but they are often grouped into three main patterns.

1. Hypersensitivity (Over-Responsiveness)

This means being more sensitive than usual to sensory input.

A young person might:

• Find loud noises painful or overwhelming
• Be uncomfortable with certain fabrics or textures
• Feel distressed in bright or crowded environments

Even everyday experiences — such as a school bell or busy classroom — can feel intense.

2. Hyposensitivity (Under-Responsiveness)

This means being less sensitive than usual to sensory input.

A young person might:

• Not notice sounds, pain, or movement as easily
• Seek out strong sensory experiences
• Need more stimulation to feel engaged

This can sometimes appear as constant movement, fidgeting, or seeking physical contact.

3. Sensory-Seeking or Mixed Responses

Many young people experience a combination of both patterns depending on the situation.

For example, someone might:

• Avoid loud noises but seek deep pressure (e.g. tight hugs)
• Be sensitive to light but enjoy movement-based activities

Each individual has a unique sensory profile.

What Does Sensory Sensitivity Feel Like?

For young people, sensory sensitivities are not simply preferences — they are real physical and emotional experiences.

Some common experiences include:

• Feeling overwhelmed in noisy or crowded spaces
• Struggling to concentrate due to background distractions
• Discomfort from clothing, textures, or physical contact
• Becoming distressed or withdrawn in busy environments

In school, this can make everyday situations — such as lessons, transitions, or social interactions — difficult to manage.

Sensory Overload

When too much sensory input builds up, it can lead to sensory overload.

This happens when the brain cannot process everything at once, resulting in:

• Anxiety or distress
• Emotional outbursts (sometimes called meltdowns)
• Withdrawal or shutdown
• Difficulty thinking or communicating

Sensory overload is not a behavioural issue. It is a natural response when the nervous system becomes overwhelmed.

Why Sensory Sensitivities Matter in Youth

Sensory sensitivities can affect many areas of a young person's life, including:

• Learning and concentration
• Emotional regulation
• Social interactions
• Confidence and self-esteem

During adolescence, these challenges may become more noticeable due to increased social pressure, changes in routine, and physical and hormonal changes.

Understanding these experiences helps shift the question from "What is wrong?" to "What is this young person experiencing?"

Supporting Sensory Sensitivities: Practical Strategies

Supporting young people with sensory sensitivities involves creating environments and approaches that reduce overwhelm and promote comfort.

For Parents and Carers

1. Identify sensory triggers

• Notice patterns in behaviour
• Understand what situations cause distress

2. Create a calm and predictable environment

• Use routines to reduce uncertainty
• Provide quiet or low-sensory spaces

3. Support self-regulation

• Encourage calming strategies (e.g. breathing, breaks)
• Allow time to recover after overwhelming experiences

4. Validate experiences

• Acknowledge feelings rather than dismiss them
• Help young people understand their own responses

For Schools

1. Create sensory-friendly classrooms

• Reduce noise and visual clutter where possible
• Offer flexible seating or quiet spaces

2. Adapt learning approaches

• Use multi-sensory teaching methods
• Provide structured and predictable routines

3. Support transitions

• Give advance warning of changes
• Allow extra time when moving between activities

4. Encourage understanding among peers

• Promote awareness and empathy
• Foster inclusive classroom environments

For Communities

1. Design inclusive spaces

• Consider lighting, sound, and crowd levels
• Provide quiet areas where possible

2. Promote awareness

• Share information about sensory sensitivities
• Challenge misconceptions

3. Encourage participation

• Make activities accessible and flexible
• Support involvement in social and community life

Recognising Strengths

While sensory sensitivities can present challenges, they can also bring real strengths.

Some individuals may be:

• Highly observant
• Creative and detail-focused
• Empathetic and attuned to others

These strengths should be recognised and valued alongside support needs.

Final Reflection

Sensory sensitivities are a key part of how some young people experience the world.

They are not about being "too sensitive" or "difficult" — they are about difference in processing and perception.

By understanding these differences, we can:

• Reduce stress and misunderstanding
• Provide more effective support
• Create more inclusive environments

Recognising sensory sensitivities is about seeing beyond behaviour and understanding experience — and that is an essential part of supporting every young person to thrive.

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References

• Passarello, N. et al. (2022). Sensory Processing Disorders in Children and Adolescents: Assessment and Therapeutic Tools (Brain Sciences)
• National Autistic Society (2026). Autism and Sensory Processing
• Child Mind Institute (2025). Sensory Processing Issues Explained
• Simply Psychology (2026). Sensory Processing Differences: From Sensitivity to Seeking
• Humber NHS Foundation Trust (2026). Sensory Processing in Teenagers
• Pérez, M., & Ríos, N. (2024). Early Intervention and Developmental Outcomes in Children with Special Needs
• National Sensory Network (2025). Understanding Sensory Processing in Teens and Young Adults