Sensory Processing Disorder and Sleep Problems, Plus Two Key Ideas for Sleeping Better

girl with dark hair lying on side with blanket pulled up to face

One of the essentials of life, up there with food, water, and shelter, is sleep. But some of us have a hard time catching adequate shuteye—and those with sensory processing disorder (SPD) are no exception.

Sleep helps heal muscles and joints, plays a vital role in the restoration of brain cells, regulates hormones, and supports brain plasticity. When we don't get the nightly rest we need, almost every function of our body and mind is affected.

If you're interested in learning about SPD's relationship to sleep, this resource can be helpful. We at AcousticSheep LLC, makers of SleepPhones®, the most comfortable headphones for sleeping, take a closer look at the indications that someone with SPD may be sleeping poorly and what a person with sensory processing disorder can do to sleep better.

A Quick Review of Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)

Sensory processing disorder (SPD), formerly referred to as sensory integration dysfunction, is a condition in which the brain has trouble receiving and responding to sensory information. For instance, sounds may be painful, touching certain fabrics may hurt, and a harsh smell may cause nausea.

SPD is different for everyone. For some, it impacts every sense, and for others, only one or a few of them are affected. Further, SPD can make a person over or under-sensitive to sensory stimuli. Because of this sensitivity, people with SPD may avoid specific triggers, which are the sensory inputs that overwhelm them.

While specialists typically identify SPD in people when they're young, some adults also deal with it. SPD is a common comorbidity with autism spectrum disorder and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). In fact, doctors do not recognize SPD as a stand-alone medical diagnosis. However, people with neither of these conditions can still have sensory processing issues.

Signs of SPD

woman with knees tucked to chest and head on hand

It’s important to reiterate that SPD affects everyone differently. But there are some consistent signs that a person may have it. Commonly, people with SPD:

Hypersensitivity

Easily overwhelmed
Seek out quiet spaces
Easily startled
Bothered by bright light and loud sounds
Refuse to wear certain fabrics
Avoid touching people
Have intense reactions to textures, smells, and tastes
Have difficulty trying new things

Hyposensitivity

Constantly touches objects
Play roughly and take physical risks
Have a high tolerance for pain
Often squirm and fidget
Are constantly on the move
Invade other people’s personal space
Often get distracted or feel anxious
Are clumsy and uncoordinated

Signs of Sensory Processing Disorder. SPD affects everyone differently. However, here are some common signs that someone with SPD may exhibit: Hypersensitivity including intense reactions to textures, smells, and tastes, difficulty trying new things, refusal to wear certain fabrics, avoiding touching people, seeking out quiet spaces, easily overwhelmed, easily startled. Hyposensitivity signs are often squirming and fidgeting, constantly touching objects, constantly on the move, clumsy and uncoordinated, high tolerance for pain, often distracted or feeling anxious, invading other people’s personal space, playing roughly and taking physical risks.

Signs that Sensory Processing Disorder is Affecting Sleep

Poor sleep negatively impacts everyone, but the effect can be even more profound for people who already have a condition. The problem is, bedtime routines can be complicated for those with SPD. There are several telltale signs that people's particular processing issues are impacting their sleep. These include:

Requiring more than 30-45 minutes to prepare for bed
Taking more than 15-20 minutes to fall asleep
Needing someone present in the room to fall asleep
Being restless and changing positions frequently
Waking up frequently
Sleeping at inconsistent times
Getting less than eight hours of sleep.

Poor sleep can then exacerbate sensory processing issues even more. While everyone's sleep routines are different, there are a few ideas you may want to consider. It's important to note that you should always talk to a medical professional that knows your particular situation before trying different treatments, regimens, strategies, or equipment.

Ways to Sleep Better with SPD

dark bedroom setting with lots of pillows and a sliver of light coming through the blinds

People with SPD must make changes to their bedtime routine slowly. Further, they should try these new strategies for a few weeks before deciding if it does or doesn't work.

1. Keep it Dark

Circadian rhythms are like our internal clock. They control our sleep-wake cycle and tell us when we should feel awake and feel sleepy. The most important external factor that impacts our circadian rhythms is light.

For people with SPD, a little light in the room can have massive effects on the quality of their sleep and sleep routine. For that reason, it's helpful to:

Cover the windows with heavy curtains
Face the bed away from the windows
Minimize electronics that light up
Try using a sleep mask

2. Keep the Noise Low

Noises at night can keep anybody up, but it can severely diminish their ability to fall asleep and stay asleep for those with SPD. To create a bedroom that supports better sleep, consider:

Minimizing electronics that make sudden sounds
Insulating windows with heavy curtains
Switching to a bedroom furthest away from high traffic rooms
Using white noise
Turning on a fan
Playing soothing music or nature sounds

For adults with SPD, it can be helpful to use headphones that are specifically designed for sleep. SleepPhones can also be used as a comfortable sleep mask to block out unwanted light.

Support from SleepPhones®

Sleep plays a critical role in all of our lives, but it can be a challenge for people with SPD. Whatever changes you make to your nightly routine, be sure to consult a medical professional beforehand. Sudden changes can cause those with SPD to have sensory overload and negatively affect their sleep. Finally, be sure the person with SPD is involved as much as possible when making decisions about their sleep routine.