Hello,

My name is Kylie and I have yet to be diagnosed also. I am sure I have SPD though, and am being tested in December of this year. I am seventeen years old. This is my first time on this forum, and I am unsure if I will be back on it, but I figured I would offer some information that may make her feel like she isn't alone in her symptoms?

I hate loud noises. With a passion... Really, I hate any unnecessary noise. I dislike the other noises too, but I recognize their necessity. For instance, if someone flushes the toilet, that is something that is unavoidable. I hate being in noisy restaurants. And when there are loud noises, I just want to cover my ears and leave (but obviously I can't). I also hate being touched arbitrarily. If I know that the touch is coming, than it’s a lot better. If I initiate touch than that’s fine too. But I cannot begin to express how much I hate it when people randomly touch me... A simple brush of the hand is enough to make me jerk. I often find that my clothing feels like an itch fest, and I hate to get messy. If someone accidentally throws liquid on me I have to breathe through it..!

Think that sounds terrible? It's not so bad. Being able to manage it is the most important thing! For instance, if you are planning on going out to eat, try to go out during a quieter time (like 4 PM instead of 6). Also, if someone is making a noise and you would like them to stop, if anything, say you have a headache! In other words, there are ways to get people to stop their behavior without saying you have SPD. If you don't like being touched, make sure to keep what I call a "safety zone" when you are with other people... A good rule of thumb is two feet. This will really minimize the amount of times that people touch you, even accidentally. If you don't like getting wet, avoid splash zones at all costs (pools, sinks, etc.)

And mainly? Maintain a good attitude. People aren't purposely trying to make you uncomfortable or distressed. They don't know any better! If you want to ask someone to stop doing something, make sure to be polite about it. They really aren't trying to annoy you

I hope this helps! Everything will be okay She isn't alone.