Sensory Integration Disorder Support Group

I do not have sensory issues, but my son does. The more you read the more you will be able to help yourself. Have you talked to a professional about things that you can do to help you with your day to day life struggles? Keep up with the sensory diet. That is a huge part of success. HUGS to you.

I'm not sure if 'normal' is the goal as it's different for everyone. That said, you can function better and maybe that's the better goal.

Learning coping skills has really helped me. Even just being able to identify why I'm freaking out can help. I try to think to myself 'it's ok, this is just the SID making me overreact'. Sometimes that helps. Knowing my triggers and only exposing myself to them on good days really helps.

My therapist gave me some advice that she uses with people in recovery from addiction. It's called the HALT system. It can help identify when you should and shouldn't expose yourself to things that might trigger you.

It goes like this: HALT. If you are Hungry, Angry, Lonely or Tired then stay home and try to keep your environment calm. If you are out shopping (Wal Mart is the worst for me- it's so loud!) and you get Hungry Angry Lonely or Tired then you know its time to go out and sit in the car for a bit or find a nice quiet place to escape.

I've done this when I had a full buggy but couldn't stand to be in line anymore. The people were pushing all over, talking so loud, wearing too much cologne (gag!) and the floor was dirty and kept sucking on my shoes. I got out of line and took my buggy to the guy who works the door and told him that I was feeling overwhelmed and just needed a minute outside. I asked him if he would watch my buggy for me- he was so nice and kept my stuff safe until I came back in.

I do not notice, most times, that my SID is becoming a problem. When I do, I can take care of the issue. But usually, it is not this way. I am avoidant of many things that I have troubles with.

Thank you everyone for your input. I guess I've been doing pretty much what I should be doing and just need to continue doing it. I really like the HALT idea. Those are some of my trigger points when I'm out in the world.

I agree that just knowing about SID makes me feel better and explains alot.

I hope you all have a nice Thanksgiving.

Hello!
I was wondering how you discovered that you have this? I stumbled upon a web-site by mistake, and I figured out that I have it. I am 32 going on 33 in 2 weeks. It does explain a lot. I don't think my family ever thought anything was wrong with me, because when I was a kid we all played outside non-stop, but now kids are inside more playing video games and on computere so peple are noticing. I used all my energy so it seemed normal.
Where did you find the diet?
Thank you!

Hi Cjean,

If you are looking to try a sensory diet you could try reading the book for adults w/ SID called Too Loud Too Bright Too Fast Too Tight by Sharon Heller it has a few good ideas about sensory diets and also discusses the different levels of SID like mild moderate and severe.

I've read it and some of the topics discussed really hit for me. :D