#159 Sensory Differences: Why Noise, Lights, Textures & People Can Feel So Intense

#159 Sensory Differences: Why Noise, Lights, Textures & People Can Feel So Intense

From Navigating Adult ADHD by Xena Jones

March 30, 2026 · 50 min · Episode 159

About this episode

This episode discusses sensory differences in adults with ADHD and their impact on focus and daily life.

Ever wondered why bright lights, loud spaces, scratchy clothes or strong smells make it impossible to focus? In this episode, I’m talking about sensory differences in adults with ADHD, why they matter so much & why this isn’t just about “being sensitive” or “bad at coping.” Inside this episode we explore: what sensory differences actually arethe different ways they can show up, including sensory-seeking, aversions & preferenceswhy sound, light, textures, smells, food, movement &am...

People in this episode

Host: Xena Jones

Topics covered

  • sensory differences
  • ADHD
  • intensity of sensory experiences
  • sensory-seeking
  • aversions
  • preferences

Keywords

  • sensory differences
  • ADHD
  • noise sensitivity
  • light sensitivity
  • textures
  • strong smells
  • focus

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