Unlocking the World of Sensory Icks: Exploring the Tag, the Seam, and the Itch
Have you ever felt a clothing tag irritate the back of your neck? If so, you’re not alone. For many neurodivergent individuals, a simple clothing tag can feel like a prickly cactus or rough sandpaper against their skin. Tags are just one example of the sensory challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals. With an estimated 90% of autistic individuals experiencing sensory processing disorder, it’s no surprise that various everyday stimuli can trigger discomfort, annoyance, or even overwhelm.
From bright lights to itchy fabrics, the world is full of sensory triggers that can disrupt the daily lives of neurodivergent individuals. Here’s a breakdown of some common sensory “icks” categorized by different senses:
Visual
- Bright white lights
Striking lights in office buildings and schools can trigger sensory overwhelm and headaches for many neurodivergent individuals. - Direct sunlight
Walking outside in direct sunlight without protection can be overwhelming for some. - Bright Monitors in the dark
Bright computer screens in dark environments can strain the eyes and lead to sensory overload. - Flashing images
Flashing lights or images can trigger headaches and sensory discomfort for many neurodivergent individuals. - Yellow foods
For some, the color of certain foods, like yellow, can evoke feelings of disgust and discomfort.
Tactile/Touch
- Clothing tags
Unbearably itchy and uncomfortable for most neurodivergent individuals. - Socks
Some may find the sensation of socks around their ankles unbearable. - Itchy or uncomfortable fabrics
Certain fabrics can trigger skin irritation and underlying skin disorders for some. - Tight clothes
Many find tight clothing, like jeans, uncomfortable and prefer loose, comfortable options. - Anything wet
Wet surfaces, hands, and clothes can be a source of discomfort and ickiness for many. - Long nails/nail polish
While the aesthetics of nail polish may be appealing, the feeling of it on the nails can be uncomfortable for some. - Dust
The feeling of dust and the sight of it can be distracting and uncomfortable for some individuals. - Dry skin
Dealing with dry skin can be a source of discomfort and aversion for some. - Crowds
The close proximity and sensory overload of crowded spaces can be overwhelming for many neurodivergent individuals.
Smell
- Strong perfume
Overpowering scents like perfume can trigger nausea and discomfort for some individuals. - Food with an overpowering smell
Intensely fragrant foods can make eating challenging for some. - Farts
The smell of flatulence can be overwhelming and nauseating for some individuals.
Taste
- Over-fizzy/flat soda drinks
The balance of fizziness in soda can greatly affect taste and comfort levels for some. - Toothbrushing
The taste and sensation of toothpaste and toothbrushing can be aversive for some individuals. - Swallowing tablets
Swallowing pills can be challenging for many, leading to discomfort and avoidance. - Cold food
The sensation of cold food can be an ick factor for some neurodivergent individuals.
Auditory/Hearing
- Loud/sudden sounds
Sudden loud noises, like drills or alarms, can be distressing and overwhelming for some. - White noise
While white noise may work for some, it can be too loud and noisy for others, preferring calming alternatives like brown or pink noise. - Dishes
The sound of clashing dishes and utensils can be uncomfortable for some individuals. - Hardcore rock music
Loud rock music can be headache-inducing for some neurodivergent individuals. - Whispers
Whispering can be annoying and challenging to understand for some. - Balloons
The sound of balloons rubbing together or popping can be distressing for some. - Water running on a tap
The sound of running water can be distracting and overwhelming for some individuals. - Chalk on blackboard
The squeaking sound of chalk on a blackboard can be irritating and anxiety-inducing for some. - Chewing
The sound of chewing can trigger cringing and discomfort for some individuals.
