The Importance of Understanding Sensitivities: A Message for Support Workers
In the world of support work, the ability to read the room and understand the unspoken needs of clients is not just a skill—it's a necessity. One aspect that often gets overlooked is the assumption that a client wearing headphones all the time is simply addicted to the internet. But what if that's not the case? For some people, headphones aren't a luxury or a sign of disinterest—they're a survival tool. Many individuals with sensory sensitivities use headphones to create a buffer between themselves and an overwhelming world. Whether it's the constant hum of white noise or specific calming music, these auditory aids can be essential for coping with everyday life. In certain situations, like living in a townhouse where noise travels easily, clients may be avoiding you, not because of disinterest, but because they are overwhelmed by the noise. Being loud and bubbly isn't always the right approach, especially when your client is using headphones to manage their envi