Research has shown that people with mental health issues may have certain differences in sensory processing. For example, an oversensitivity can lead to increased anxiety and restlessness without necessarily understanding the cause. It may cause issues with lights, noises, or crowds. Likewise, an undersensitivity can lead to difficulty recognizing the signs of fear, frustration, or sadness – an issue that can build up over time.
“If people have difficulty with sensory integration, we can use exposure to various sensory experiences to help practice responses in a safe environment,” says Emma Kaplan, MSOT, OTR/L, Allied Clinical Therapist for the Princeton House inpatient program. “Sensory integration is an opportunity to regulate the body, and hopefully the mind can follow.”
In her “Coping Through the Senses with Occupational Therapy” group, Kaplan starts with exposure to different sensory inputs, such as scented oils, tapping meditations, or movement. She then engages the group in an activity that enforces how to apply sensory strategies in daily life, such as identifying when to use calming or alerting stimuli and creating daily routines that target the sensory system to improve overall regulation.
Behavioral health providers can incorporate sensory integration into sessions with patients as well. Kaplan recommends:
- Assessing the treatment environment for items that can be overwhelming to the senses. Simple changes include using a desk lamp instead of overhead fluorescent lights, adding a white noise machine to reduce focus on any noise outside the office, and ensuring that the seating area has comfortable pillows and cushions.
- Practicing interoception through deep breathing exercises or body scans.
- Recommending ways patients can alert or calm the senses as needed throughout the day. This might include listening to upbeat music in the morning to bring their energy level up, and dimming household lights at night for a calming effect.
“When the brain has something sensory to think about for a few moments, it can provide a clearer perspective overall,” adds Kaplan. “If a patient leaves my group feeling calmer and more focused, they may be able to carry that with them. It’s why I love integrating occupational therapy strategies in mental health – when you see an impact, there’s really nothing like it.”
