ADHD Noise Sensitivity: Sensory Differences In People With ADHD

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is commonly classified as a neurodevelopmental disorder and a form of neurodiversity. Neurodiversity generally refers to a difference in cognitive and sensory processing that varies from what might be considered “neurotypical” or what might fit into social norms. 

People who identify as neurodivergent and those living with ADHD may be at a higher risk of sensory challenges, including noise sensitivity. Those experiencing challenges with noise sensitivity may benefit from using noise-canceling headphones, avoiding loud environments, and trying exposure therapy or cognitive-behavioral therapy.

Understanding ADHD and neurodiversity

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder is categorized in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-V) as a neurodevelopmental disorder. 

However, some people identify with the neurodiversity model of ADHD, believing that ADHD symptoms are the result of brain differences in processing, cognition, and sensory connections. This model suggests that difficulties experienced by neurodivergent individuals may be due to living in a world that does not accommodate neurodivergent brains. 

The DSM-V lists three subtypes of ADHD, including primarily inattentive (ADHD-PI), hyperactive-impulsive (ADHD-HI), and combined type. Symptoms of ADHD-PI often include a lack of focus, difficulty remaining engaged in tasks, forgetting essential items, and experiencing memory difficulties. 

People with ADHD-HI may display impulsive behavior, difficulty sitting still, a tendency to interrupt others, and frequently switching between tasks. People with combined type ADHD may have some symptoms from each of the other subtypes. 

Studies have found that sensory difficulties tend to present more often in individuals with ADHD than in those without, although updated evidence may be needed. However, this symptom is not listed as an official criterion for diagnosis.  

What is ADHD noise sensitivity? 

Some individuals with ADHD may experience noise sensitivity, which can take several forms, including the following: 

• Misophonia: Certain sounds cause anger or significant irritation  
• Phonophobia: Certain sounds cause anxiety or fear 
• Recruitment: Struggles to adjust between different levels of sound 
• Hyperacusis: Difficulty coping with sounds that others may find “normal” or non-bothersome, such as sounds in one’s environment 

In some cases, noise sensitivity in ADHD may have positive impacts. For example, a 2014 study found that white noise could improve the academic performance and focus of adolescents with ADHD during reading and writing activities. 

Noise sensitivity may be more frequently connected to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) than ADHD. However, it is estimated that 50% to 70% of Autistic individuals also have ADHD. For this reason, some people with ADHD and autism may have elevated sensory challenges compared to those with ADHD alone. 

Sensory experiences and neurodivergence 

Neurodivergent individuals, like those living with ADHD and autism spectrum disorder, may be at risk of more sensitive sensory perception. Below are some of the other ways ADHD may impact the senses. 

Types of sensory processing issues in people with ADHD

There are different types of sensory processing issues that can be present with ADHD. 

Touch

According to studies, children with ADHD may have more difficulty processing tactile sensations due to impairment in the central processing of “somatosensory information,” although updated research may be necessary. Hypersensitivity to touch was usually associated with higher anxiety in the study participants. 

Children with ADHD often have touch sensitivities related to having their hair brushed, feeling water on their faces, or experiencing minor injuries. Some kids may have less tactile connection. For example, they might not notice sticky substances on their skin or realize someone touched them to get their attention. 

Sight

A 2019 study found that people with ADHD may have improved visual-spatial skills compared to neurotypical individuals. ADHD was often associated with higher instances of visual memory, spatial relationships, sequential memory, and sequencing. 

Taste

There may be a connection between taste and texture sensitivity and ADHD. Children with ADHD often have food preferences due to sensory challenges. In one study, certain foods were found to cause heightened sensitivity and worsen symptoms. The study authors identified 27 food restrictions, and many of the participants had more than one food sensitivity. 

Smell

Olfactory (scent) deficits in individuals with ADHD may exist in individuals with the condition. In some cases, stimulant medication may normalize odor sensitivities. 

Consult a medical doctor before starting, changing, or stopping a medication for any condition. The information in this article is not a replacement for medical advice or diagnosis. 

How to cope with noise sensitivity to improve mental health

If you’re experiencing the negative impacts of noise sensitivity or another sensory challenge, below are some ways you might support yourself and cope. 

Consider noise-canceling headphones 

Noise-canceling headphones may reduce sensory overload caused by noise sensitivity. You can buy these headphones as a complete headset or discreet earbuds. These headphones are often designed to reduce sound by around 30 decibels or more. Some headphones block out all sounds, whereas others may block out background noise but allow you to hear your own voice and the people with whom you’re speaking. 

Avoid loud environments with ADHD noise sensitivity

If you frequently become distressed in certain environments, you might avoid those locations. If you’re unable to avoid them, consider ways you might be able to accommodate yourself while you’re there. For example, if you struggle to cope at the mall because of the sound but want to be able to shop there, consider going early in the morning when there are fewer people. 

Consider exposure therapy with a licensed professional 

Some professionals recommend exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy to cope with noise sensitivity. They posit that avoiding noises and attempting to block them out can increase one’s fear response to the noises. This modality might be especially effective for those living with misophonia, which typically involves an intolerance to sounds from other people. 

You can try exposure therapy with a licensed mental health professional trained in this modality. ERP is often practiced alongside cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which may also be effective in helping individuals cope with sensory challenges. 

Prepare yourself ahead of time for ADHD symptoms

Preparing yourself for noise exposure may reduce the fear associated with it. For example, you might wear comfortable clothing, drink water, eat a nutritious meal, and get enough rest before going out to an event that may involve loud noises or other sensory difficulties. By caring for your body and ensuring your stress tolerance is high, you may be less likely to experience sensory overload, burnout, or a meltdown in public. 

Navigate sensory challenges in therapy

Connect with a therapist online

Talk to a therapist to improve your mental health

Whether you’re interested in trying exposure therapy or another modality, a therapist may be a helpful resource for coping with sensory challenges. In therapy, you can learn evidence-based practices for working through needs related to neurodiversity and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. 

In some cases, individuals with ADHD may have difficulty reaching out for help in their area due to barriers like financial challenges, difficulty making appointments, or heightened sensitivity to sensory input. In these cases, online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp may be more feasible. Clients may choose between phone, video, or live chat sessions and attend therapy from home or any location with an internet connection, which may reduce complications due to sound sensitivity.  

Studies usually support the effectiveness of online interventions for those living with ADHD. A 2022 study found that social function and attention were improved in approximately 95% of participants in an online therapy intervention targeted at managing ADHD symptoms.