Do i have sensory issues quiz?

We all have unique experiences and preferences when it comes to our senses. Some of us love the sound of rain tapping on the roof, while others find it grating on their nerves. But what happens when these sensory experiences become overwhelming or significantly impact our daily lives? It could be a sign of sensory processing disorder (SPD), also known as sensory issues.

But how do you know if you have SPD or are just particularly sensitive to certain stimuli? Take this fun and informative quiz to find out if your sensory quirks are more than just personal preferences!

What Are Sensory Issues?

Before we jump into the quiz, let’s explore what we mean by “sensory issues.” As humans, we take in information about the world around us through our five senses: sight, touch, taste, smell, and hearing. Our brains then process this information and help us navigate life accordingly.

For most people, this system runs smoothly without much conscious effort. However, for those with SPD, this processing can go haywire, leading to intense discomfort or even pain in response to different sensations. This can manifest in many ways based on individual preference (or avoidance) for specific stimuli such as loud noises or strong smells.

Section One – Overstimulation

Do you ever feel like you’re constantly bombarded by too much input all at once? This might indicate overstimulation, one of the key indicators that you may be experiencing sensory issues.

1a) Bright Lights

Do bright lights bother you more than they seem to bother others?
– Yes
– No

1b) Loud Noises

Are sudden loud noises unbearable for you?
– Yes
– No

1c) Crowded Spaces

Do crowded spaces make you anxious?
– Yes
– No

If any or all of these things resonate with you, you might be experiencing overstimulation. This doesn’t necessarily mean that you have SPD, but it’s worth taking a closer look.

Section Two – Texture Sensitivity

Do certain textures make your skin crawl? Does the thought of touching something squishy or slimy cause physical discomfort? These are all signs of texture sensitivity which is another key indicator that you may have sensory issues.

2a) Clothing

Do certain fabrics feel unbearable on your skin?
– Yes
– No

2b) Food Texture

Do certain food textures make you gag?
– Yes
– No

2c) Touching Certain Objects

Are there materials or objects (like chalk or sandpaper), that freak you out when touched?
– Yes
– No

If these kinds of experiences sound familiar, it’s possible that texture sensitivity is affecting your daily life in ways big and small. Keep reading for more specific signs!

Section Three – Hyposensitivity and Hypersensitivity

Sensory issues can also manifest as either hyposensitivity (under-responsiveness to stimuli) or hypersensitivity (over-responsiveness).

3a) Smells

Are smells either barely noticeable to you or overpowering in intensity?
– Barely Noticeable
– Overpowering

3b) Taste Buds

Would most people likely perceive flavors as stronger compared to how they taste to you (hypohedonic) ? Or would most people likely think a flavor was disgusting while not being particularly grossed out by stronger flavors (hyperhedonic) ?
Hypohedonic
Hyperhedonic

3c) Temperature Tolerance

Is being hot/cold usually an extreme experience for you rather than simply uncomfortable? i.e physiological changes occur like sweating profusely even at mild warm temperatures.
Usually Extreme Experience
Not Extreme.

Section Four – Motor Coordination Issues

Would at least one specific activity be difficult for you to perform due to the motor control needed? This could also indicate that you have sensory issues.

4a) Fine Motor Control

Do tasks that require precise movements (like threading a needle) frustrate or overwhelm you?
– Yes
– No

4b) Gross Motor Control

Are activities like jumping jacks or catching a ball tricky for you?
– Yes
-No

If so, it’s possible that these difficulties are related to SPD.

What Your Results Mean

Okay, time to tally up your results! For each question:

  • If your answer is “Yes” put down ‘1’.
  • Or if it is ‘hypohedonic’ and ‘barely noticeable’ / should put ‘0.5’.
    i.e Should Always use numbers 1 & 0.5
Question Answer
Bright Lights
Loud Noises
Crowded Spaces
Clothing Textures
Food Texture Preferences
Touching Certain Objects
Smells
Taste Buds
Temperature_Tolerance
Fine_Motor_Control
Gross_Motor_Control

Total = XXX

Now let’s see what your number means!

30+ points: You likely experience several forms of overstimulation and hypersensitivity. Consult with occupational therapy professionals knowledgeable about Sensory Integration Therapy or speak with other medical personnel about additional options regarding diagnosis and treatment.

20 -29 points: Some of these things might bother you more than they do most people but being sensitive in select areas can often still make life harder than necessary sometimes.

10 -19 points: It’s generally possible that certain experiences feel extra intense at times but may not significantly affect daily routines in major ways.

0 -9 points: You either have a strong mind OR very minimal sensory issues that are unlikely to disrupt daily life.

Conclusion

Now you should have a better idea of whether or not you may be experiencing sensory issues. Remember, this quiz is just for fun and not intended to diagnose any condition! If anything stood out to you in your results, consider speaking with your doctor or an occupational therapist who specializes in SPD for more information and guidance on next steps.

Until then, continue exploring ways to create environments that work best for you (hanging blackout curtains if bright light bothers you, wearing headphones in crowded spaces), finding meaningful coping mechanisms which can help ease overstimulation (deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation), or advocating for accommodations as needed!

Good luck navigating the wild world of senses – it’s full of surprises!

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