Modern understanding of sensory processing disorder increasingly centers on the nervous system — specifically, the chronic dysregulation that underlies many sensory processing disorder presentations.
The Nervous System in Sensory Processing Disorder
The autonomic nervous system has two primary states relevant to sensory processing disorder:
Sympathetic activation ('fight or flight'): When chronically activated, drives anxiety-type sensory processing disorder
Parasympathetic ('rest and digest'): The recovery state — undermined by sensory processing disorder
Dorsal vagal shutdown: A third state — freeze/collapse — associated with depression-type sensory processing disorder
Signs of Nervous System Dysregulation in Sensory Processing Disorder
Chronic hyperarousal (always 'on edge'), difficulty relaxing even in safe environments, and feeling perpetually exhausted despite rest.
Regulating the Nervous System for Sensory Processing Disorder
- Breathwork: Directly activates the parasympathetic nervous system
- Cold exposure: Controlled cold activates the vagus nerve, improving sensory processing disorder
- Safe social engagement: Co-regulation through trusted relationships
- Movement: Discharges sympathetic activation accumulated in sensory processing disorder