It's got a name, but does that make it better?

by Simon
(London, UK)

I am a 39 yo male, and do not have a diagnosis but based on the checklist it is fairly evident that SPD played a part in certain developmental aspects of my childhood. Not only that it also explained certain quirks that I thought were just a hangover of my childhood. When I first did the checklist it just brought all the frustration and anger flooding back that no one realised there was something wrong. The problem is I am a high functioning professional and was a high functioning child so my launguage and reading and comprehension are above average. I have learnt certain skills over time but handwriting, swimming and most fine motor skills are definitely pretty poor. I still have issues determining left from right, hand flapping when excited on my own and my hand writing is atrocious.




I guess I am at a crossroads where I am thinking is there anything I can do to rectify and build on 39 years of learned coping mechanisms?



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Feb 29, 2012
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by: Rosy

As I've been reading about this disorder all week i've discovered that there are many symptoms that are different for each individual. So the successful professionals with SPD that have been able to overcome many obstacles and adapted to life are quite lucky. Compared to myself who is on the other end of the spectrum that has had many learning difficulties in school, overflowing into adulthood creating problems with social, emotional behaviours etc. I admit through embarrassment of my situation I've tried my hardest to adapt or hide my quirks, though it mostly shines through anyway or eventually comes bursting out. My mother was abusive and i suspect she and her father have the same disorder, the anger and rage was not controlled in their situation. From this i have attempted suicide four times and have been extremely desperate to find the answer. So yes I would like help in any shape or form from an OT or anyone who can help to make my life better and for my son who has been diagnosed with the same disorder.
Nov 14, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Understanding is half the battle.
by: Tracy

We are in the same boat. I am 47 and just had my first visit with an OT last week. Really it was just to answer some questions I had. I also have a very good job and was very intelligent as a child. I spent a good week just being flooded with memories about my childhood and finally understanding why I was so different. So much makes sense now. It's funny because I out grew (desensitised) most side effects except spatially. I really have no concept of right, left etc.

Anyway I suppose there is a couple ways to look at this. You are an adult with a productive life just look at what you have overcome. Do you really need help? After 30 something years I bet you have figured out ways to deal with SPD that would surprise many OT's. I personally want to get the word out there to parents of kids with SPD that our lives can be productive and happy. Stay positive and congratulations on what you have accomplished.

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