The link between sensory processing disorder and anxiety

Sensory processing disorder (SPD) and anxiety disorders are two different types of mental health conditions that share some similar symptoms. SPD is characterized by extreme sensitivity to environmental stimuli. For example, a person with SPD may experience intense distress in the presence of loud noises, bright lights, certain textures, strong smells, or specific tastes. In response, they may develop anxiety and other uncomfortable symptoms. 

This experience might leave a person wondering whether they have SPD or an anxiety disorder. In addition, research shows that unmanaged SPD may be a risk factor for developing an anxiety disorder. So, it’s possible you could have both conditions at the same time. Fortunately, there’s effective treatment available that can help you address both concerns at the same time.  

How to tell sensory processing disorder and anxiety apart

Different types of anxiety disorders and subtypes of SPDs can affect children and adults in different ways. But if you’re not sure whether you have SPD or an anxiety disorder (or both), it might be helpful to compare and contrast some of their most common symptoms.

Sensory processing disorder symptoms include: 

• Heightened awareness and aversion to sensory stimuli (light, taste, touch, sound, smell) 
• Problems with emotional regulation 
• Difficulty with routine tasks and everyday interactions because of sensory concerns
• Trouble navigating sensory-rich environments
• Challenges with coordination and spatial awareness
• Poor organization skills
• Low self-esteem
• Trouble adapting to change
• Discomfort with physical touch, like handshakes or hugs
• Restlessness  

Anxiety disorder symptoms include: 

• Frequent fatigue
• Restlessness
• Feeling constantly on edge
• Trouble with focus and concentration
• Irritability
• Physical symptoms like digestive issues, headaches, or otherwise unexplained aches and pains
• Sleep problems
• Constant uncontrolled worry

In reviewing these symptoms, you can see how some of these experiences might overlap and where they might differ. 

SPD involves a severe, anxious response to overwhelming environmental stimuli. This can happen in settings that might not seem particularly intense to other people. For example, a person without SPD might prefer low or warm lighting in their home or workspace. But they can still go about their day and complete tasks under different types of lights. 

For someone with SPD, though, their hypersensitivity can make sensory stimuli unbearable. A too-bright light could make it challenging for them to regulate their emotions, complete tasks, and manage stress. In turn, they may experience these outcomes as heightened anxiety in their minds and bodies.

Anxiety disorders, on the other hand, have a different focus. Their main symptom is chronic, uncontrolled worry about what could happen, even in the absence of an obvious threat. These intense fears don’t necessarily relate to environmental stimuli, and they’re often present in many situations. This is different from SPD-related anxiety. 

Unlike in the example above, where a person’s anxiety might be triggered by sensory overload via lighting, a person with an anxiety disorder will feel anxious most of the time. It’s also important to note that to be diagnosed with SPD or an anxiety disorder, a person must have symptoms that interrupt daily functioning in significant ways.

Can one disorder cause the other?

Given that anxiety and SPD often go hand in hand, you might be wondering if one causes the other, and vice versa. Researchers are yet to understand why these conditions co-occur so frequently. However, evidence suggests sensory sensitivity could lead to anxiety. This might be due to a conditioned response in addition to genetic or psychological factors. 

For example, imagine a child who becomes extremely overwhelmed by noise in crowded spaces. But they still have to go to school, the store, and other busy places. This could lead them to live in a constant state of hypervigilance, which, in turn, could put them at greater risk of developing an anxiety disorder. At the same time, having an anxiety disorder may reduce distress tolerance. A person with an anxiety disorder may have trouble processing environmental stimuli, resulting in sensory overload.

Four tips for overcoming sensory overload and anxiety

If you experience anxiety and sensory overload, there are things you can do to manage your worries and navigate stress in your environment.

1. Know your triggers. Think about the times and places where you’re more likely to feel overwhelmed or anxious. Is there a certain sensory experience that seems to trigger your symptoms? Having this insight can help you make proactive changes that can help you navigate sensory overload and anxiety.
2. Modify your environment. Once you know your triggers, consider what you can do to address them. Of course, we can only control certain settings. But there might be some things you can do to make home, work, or school more comfortable. For example, you can use light-filtering shades or a white noise machine to reduce sensory stimulation.
3. Create a list of coping skills. Brainstorming a list of potential coping strategies can help you know how to respond to stress when it arises. You know yourself best. What are the things you can do for yourself when anxiety or sensory overload takes hold? For example, you might need to take a break, seek out a less stimulating environment, put on some headphones, or use a weighted blanket.
4. Seek professional help. If you’re having a hard time managing your anxiety and sensory overwhelm, know that you’re not alone and help is available. Working with a therapist can help you better understand yourself, your symptoms, and how to manage them in healthy ways.

Find care with Rula

Anxiety disorders and SPDs are different conditions that can share some similar features and frequently co-occur. However, what sets them apart is the source of distress. Anxiety disorders cause pervasive, chronic worries about the future. But with SPDs, anxiety arises due to overwhelming sensory input. While both conditions can impact your mental health and ability to function, know that with the right support, you can learn to manage your symptoms. 

At Rula, we’re committed to making it easier to access support for anxiety, SPDs, and any other mental health concerns you might be facing. In just a few minutes, you can use our therapist-matching program to find a provider who takes your insurance and offers the right care for your needs. And thanks to our extensive network, you won’t wait weeks or months for an appointment. You can select a therapist or psychiatrist and make your first appointment as soon as tomorrow.

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