Pain and Discomfort in Public

Removing the Stigma Surrounding Sensory Differences

All information by the STAR Institute  

Understanding Sensory Discomfort

THERE ARE MANY UNWRITTEN RULES AROUND HOW WE CAN EXPRESS AND RESPOND TO DISCOMFORT AND PAIN IN ALMOST EVERY ENVIRONMENT.

Most often we are expected to behave in public spaces as if we are always fine and never uncomfortable. Because of this, multiple time a day, every one of us has to mask (or hide) our discomfort... all because we aren't allowed to make anyone else uncomfortable.

Expressing Discomfort Can Look Like

  • A loud exclamation of pain or shock
  • A look of uneasiness or pain
  • Fidgeting more than usual
  • Making our sensory needs known, ie.:

Shutting the door on a noisy discussion | Asking for a temperature change | Dimming the lights | Standing up to listen when everyone else is sitting

What if we started learning and being comfortable with the different ways people experience the world?

...because by avoiding discomfort we are making it worse.

For some of us, the sensory discomfort of being in public spaces is like being constantly bombarded by pain and danger.

Flickering lights, lunch smells, tapping pens, noisy air cons. We can't get rid of most sensory stimuli, so can we allow people to do what they need to feel safe and functional?

  • If the world is too much to try:

    • Tinted sunglasses (even indoors!)
    • Noise reduction headphones
    • Weighted lap pads
    • Natural lighting
    • Keeping your favorite scent ready

  • When being still is the problem think about:

    • Standing desk
    • Wobble board
    • Seating options
    • Walking meetings or dates

  • If you need more of everything try:

    • Bright lights
    • Upbeat music
    • Chewing gum
    • Fidgets and textures
    • Cooler room temperatures
1 3

Let's normalize accommodations, instead of normalizing people."
-Dr. Virginia Spielmann