Sensory triggers and tracking

Common triggers and a simple diary template to spot patterns and plan support.

3 min read

Common sensory triggers

Noise, light, smells, textures, crowds, heat, hunger, tiredness, pain, clothing, toilets, food, sudden touch, unexpected change, too many instructions, social demands, waiting, transitions.

Trigger tracking — questions to ask

What happened before distress?
Where were they?
What sounds, lights or smells were present?
What clothes were they wearing?
Were they hungry or tired?
Was there a transition or demand?
What helped?
How long did recovery take?

Sensory diary template

Date:
Time:
Place:
What happened before?
Sensory triggers noticed:
Behaviour or response:
What helped:
How long recovery took:
What could we change next time?

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Sensory needs are differences in how the brain receives and responds to input — not bad behaviour, but a nervous system trying to cope and find balance.

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Beyond the familiar five senses, there are three internal senses — vestibular, proprioception and interoception — that shape how we experience the world.

Sensory over-responsiveness

When everyday input feels too loud, too bright, too rough or too much — and how to respond with compassion.

Sensory under-responsiveness

When sensory signals don't reach the brain as strongly — appearing dreamy, slow to respond, or unaware of pain, hunger or temperature.

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