I am on a work trip right now in a big city. We have trains, lots of people, and tons of cars all around us. I know there are many people that thrive living and working in big cities, but there are also many that cannot. For those, it can get overwhelming really fast. And for some, it can be a downright panic. Sensory issues and overload is something that several people fight, and very few understand. And the more I see what my coworker goes through, the more I understand for my son.
As kids, we parents are used to picky eaters and picky needs. But for some of those kids, what feels like “pickiness” is actually an anxiety. My son struggles with foods to eat from the texture. He doesn’t eat mashed potatoes, shredded chicken or beef, or any deli cut of meat. Each of these have a texture issue that actually makes him sick to his stomach. And some meats he liked once before, he can’t eat now. All from textures. Does it make sense to me? No. Is it an actual issue for him? Yes.
Their View
My coworker today had a very difficult day. We found ourselves in an enclosed food court space that had 7 restaurants and way too many people. The noise level was intense, the smells were overwhelming, and the people were crowding. Everything was compounding on top for her that she needed to get away quickly. Do I understand how she was feeling? No. Was it real to her? Yes.
Just because I don’t understand or know what it is like for them to be faced with these situations, does not mean they are any less difficult for them to deal with. The world with filled with diverse population. It only makes sense that there are issues, struggles, and disorders that I have no idea about. Having a caring and respectful nature, helps them to maneuver through their challenges better. I don’t have to understand. But I can be caring and let them know that I will try to help them get to a safer location or find them food they can eat. The one thing I will never do, is make them feel bad for having to fight this kind of battle.
Enjoy these videos.
With great warmth,
