By Tim Aiello, MA, LPC, ADHD-CCSP, ASDCS
Clinical Director, Myndset Therapeutics
Touch is a fundamental part of human experience, but for many autistic and ADHD adults, it can be a source of distress rather than comfort. Tactile sensitivity—a heightened or aversive response to certain textures, temperatures, or types of physical contact—is common among neurodivergent individuals, affecting everything from clothing choices to social interactions and personal routines.
As an AuDHD therapist and individual, I know firsthand how intense tactile sensitivity can be. I can’t stand touching any textures other than my own skin. At home, I must wear a specific pair of slides at all times because walking barefoot—even in my own home—is unbearable. While this may seem like a small quirk to some, for those of us with tactile sensitivity, these experiences shape how we navigate the world on a daily basis.
What Is Tactile Sensitivity?
Tactile sensitivity, also called tactile defensiveness, occurs when the nervous system overreacts to touch stimuli. Instead of processing touch as neutral or pleasant, the brain interprets it as uncomfortable, irritating, or even painful.
This sensitivity can affect:
Clothing and fabrics (tags, seams, certain materials)
Shoes and socks (textures, tightness, being barefoot)
Social touch (handshakes, hugs, casual contact)
Environmental surfaces (furniture, bedsheets, textures underfoot)
Tactile sensitivity varies widely—some people avoid all touch, while others struggle with specific types, such as light touch but not deep pressure (Miller et al., 2017).
Tactile Sensitivity in Autistic Adults
Autistic adults frequently experience altered sensory processing, with tactile input being one of the most commonly affected senses. Studies show that autistic adults have increased neural activation in response to touch, making certain textures, fabrics, or skin contact feel overwhelming (Robertson & Baron-Cohen, 2017).
Common challenges include:
Discomfort with unexpected touch → A casual pat on the shoulder may feel like an unpleasant jolt.
Aversion to certain fabrics → Wool, lace, or tight clothing may feel unbearable.
Difficulty with grooming routines → Haircuts, shaving, and wearing jewelry may be overstimulating.
Issues with being barefoot → Walking on certain surfaces, such as carpet, tile, or grass, can feel excruciating.
Some autistic adults gravitate toward deep pressure (e.g., weighted blankets, compression clothing) while avoiding light touch (Grandin, 1992). This is due to differences in how the nervous system processes sensory input—deep pressure is often soothing, while light touch can be irritating or dysregulating.
Tactile Sensitivity in ADHD Adults
ADHD is not traditionally thought of as a sensory processing condition, yet research shows that tactile sensitivity is also common in ADHD (Bijlenga et al., 2017). ADHD affects sensory filtering, meaning individuals may struggle to tune out tactile input, making them more aware of clothing textures, shoes, or environmental touch.
ADHD-related tactile challenges can include:
Irritation with clothing tags, seams, or synthetic fabrics
Fidgeting or adjusting clothing frequently due to discomfort
Sensitivity to temperature (too hot/cold easily)
Difficulty ignoring background sensory input (wind, air conditioning, light touch on skin)
For ADHD adults, tactile sensitivity often fluctuates based on focus and stress levels. When hyperfocused, someone may not notice sensory discomfort, but in moments of high stress, tactile input may become unbearable (Kinnealey et al., 2011).
Why Does Tactile Sensitivity Happen? The Polyvagal Connection
Tactile sensitivity is not just a preference—it’s a nervous system response. Polyvagal Theory (PVT) explains how the autonomic nervous system interprets sensory input, shifting between states of safety, fight-or-flight, or shutdown (Porges, 2011).
For neurodivergent adults:
Touch can trigger a stress response → If light touch is perceived as threatening, the nervous system may react with fight-or-flight (agitation, pulling away) or shutdown (numbness, avoidance).
Deep pressure is often regulating → Many autistic and ADHD adults seek deep pressure input (weighted blankets, tight clothing, firm hugs) because it signals safety to the nervous system.
Sensory overload leads to emotional exhaustion → Continuous discomfort from clothing, shoes, or environmental touch can create chronic nervous system dysregulation, leading to fatigue, anxiety, or irritability (Thapa et al., 2022).
This explains why modifying sensory environments is not about being picky—it’s about nervous system survival.
Personal Insights: Living with Tactile Sensitivity
For me, tactile sensitivity affects almost every aspect of my daily routine. I cannot tolerate walking barefoot anywhere, even in my own home. The feeling of any surface other than my skin triggers immediate distress, so I always wear a specific pair of slides that provide a neutral, predictable texture.
This need is not a choice—it’s a physical necessity for regulation. If I walk barefoot on a rough, sticky, or even slightly different surface, I feel disoriented, tense, and uncomfortable. My body perceives the sensation as wrong, and the discomfort lingers long after the touch is gone.
For many neurodivergent adults, tactile sensitivities shape daily routines, clothing choices, and even home environments. The key to managing this isn’t forcing tolerance but rather creating an environment that supports regulation.
Coping Strategies for Tactile Sensitivity
Managing tactile sensitivity involves understanding your nervous system and making proactive adjustments. Some effective strategies include:
1. Modify Your Clothing & Environment
Choose soft, seamless clothing that doesn’t irritate the skin.
Remove tags and tight collars that cause discomfort.
Use weighted blankets or compression clothing to provide calming deep pressure.
2. Control Tactile Input Where Possible
Stick to familiar, predictable textures (e.g., wearing the same comfortable shoes).
Adjust environmental factors (e.g., soft sheets, avoiding scratchy furniture).
Use gloves or barriers for uncomfortable textures (e.g., dishwashing gloves, fabric-lined pockets).
3. Use Sensory Regulation Tools
Engage in deep pressure activities (e.g., stretching, firm massage).
Try stimulating fidgets that provide comforting tactile input.
Experiment with cool or warm temperatures to desensitize the nervous system.
4. Advocate for Your Sensory Needs
Communicate boundaries → It’s okay to say, “I don’t like being touched.”
Modify work & social settings → Wear sensory-friendly clothing and bring comfort items.
Give yourself permission to accommodate → Sensory comfort is not a luxury—it’s a necessity.
Conclusion: Your Sensory Experience Is Valid
Tactile sensitivity is a real and significant experience for autistic and ADHD adults. The discomfort caused by certain textures or touch isn’t just a personal preference—it’s a neurological reality.
Understanding how your nervous system processes touch can help you make informed choices that support comfort, focus, and emotional well-being. Whether it’s modifying clothing, adjusting your environment, or advocating for your needs, sensory accommodations matter—and you deserve to exist in a world that respects them.
For more information on sensory processing and nervous system regulation, visit www.myndset-therapeutics.com.
References
Porges, S. W. (2011). The Polyvagal Theory: Neurophysiological Foundations of Emotions, Attachment, Communication, and Self-Regulation.
Robertson, C. & Baron-Cohen, S. (2017). Sensory perception in Autism Spectrum Disorders. Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews, 75, 146-167.
Miller, L. J., et al. (2017). Sensory integration and tactile processing in ASD. American Journal of Occupational Therapy.
Thapa, R., et al. (2022). Sensory overload and nervous system regulation in Autism. Frontiers in Neuroscience.
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