I'm 19 years old with SPD

by Rachel
(Green Bay, WI)

Growing up, I couldn't STAND wearing tight pants, socks over my ankles, turtle necks, or anything with tags. I hated wearing a jacket and I was constantly pushing down my pants because I couldn't have anything touching my waist. "It doesn't feel right" is what I would constantly say. I was a very picky eater because tastes, textures, and temperatures were so extreme. I always had to wear sunglasses when I went outside and got distracted easily. I also had troubles listening to people talk and following directions. My parents would ask me how my day was and I would stomp away irritated and angry. My parents pretended I was normal and my childhood was a living nightmare. I wasn't trying to be difficult or act like a spoiled brat. Every day was battle to get through. I decided to see a psychologist last year and he quickly diagnosed me with ADHD. However, SPD was also mentioned.

I may never find out what is wrong with me, but i will never be satisfied with an answer either. I'm now 19 years old and a sophomore in college. I wear yoga pants and sports bras to class every day because that's all I can tolerate. I still have the same problems as when I was a kid, but I've learned how to deal with them better. It doesn't get easier though. I still resent my parents for not getting me help. If your child has any of these problems, do as much as you can to help them. It's not easy living a life with hypersensitivity- trust me. I just want to be normal more than anything in the world.