Should Therapists Pay More Attention to Sensory Processing Sensitivity in Individuals with Depression?

Abstract

Ever since the concept of Sensory Processing Sensitivity (SPS) was introduced, extensive research has solidified its theoretical and empirical foundations. SPS is characterized by enhanced awareness, deeper information processing, and increased emotional and physiological reactivity (Acevedo, 2020). Moreover, research has found that a significant portion of 20-30% of the population exhibits high SPS (Greven et al., 2018). The prevalence of SPS becomes particularly concerning for increasing the likelihood of individuals developing depression. Studies indicate that individuals with high SPS are more susceptible to depressive symptoms under stress (Wu et al., 2020). High levels of sensory processing sensitivity might be related to the appearance of depression. This raises critical questions about current therapeutic practices: Do therapists consider SPS when diagnosing depression? Should treatment protocols differ for patients with both depression and high SPS compared to those without SPS? This literature review aimed to explore the relationship between SPS and depression and how therapists might leverage this understanding to refine diagnostic and treatment methods for individuals with high SPS. To examine potential ways to ensure that SPS is appropriately considered in depression diagnoses, this review also compared and contrasted diagnostic methods for individuals with high SPS and those with depression. Furthermore, the review explored possible alternative treatments that could be used or developed specifically for individuals with high SPS and depression.