The role of sensory processing patterns on mental health in healthy adults

There are individual differences in processing sensory information. Growing evidence indicates that differences in sensory processing may contribute to a greater risk of developing mental ill-health issues. This study aimed to explore the relationship between sensory processing patterns and depression, anxiety, and stress in healthy adults.

This cross-sectional study included 341 healthy adults, aged between 18 and 60. Participants completed a sociodemographic form, the Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile and the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21.

Sensory sensitivity, low registration, and sensory avoidance had positive moderate correlations with depression, anxiety, and stress (p < 0.001); sensory sensitivity was negatively correlated with stress (p < 0.05). Regression models indicated that both sensory sensitivity and low registration patterns were predictors of depression, anxiety, stress, and the total score of Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21. The sensory avoidance predicted depression, while the sensory seeking pattern was linked only to stress.

Passive self-regulation strategies (sensory sensitivity and low registration) may play a role in experiencing mental ill-health issues. In contrast, active self-regulation strategies (sensory avoidance and sensory seeking) may help protect against these mental health challenges. Occupational therapists can help clients manage mental health issues better by addressing sensory processing patterns. However, more evidence is required.