Why Sound Affects Neurodivergent BrainsFiltered filtering issues: Neurotypical brains automatically block out background noise, but autistic and ADHD brains often process all sounds at the exact same volume and importance.Auditory flooding: Everyday sounds like a humming fridge, distant traffic, or multiple people talking can blend into an overwhelming "sound tsunami" that drains energy and focus.Nervous system differences: The brain's auditory cortex can be hyperactive, meaning ordinary noises feel physically painful, intrusive, or exhausting.Common Sound-Related ExperiencesHyperacusis: Increased sensitivity to volume where normal sounds feel painfully loud.Misophonia: Strong emotional reactions—like intense anger or panic—triggered by specific, quiet repetitive sounds such as chewing, breathing, or tapping.Phonophobia: An intense, irrational fear or anxiety of encountering loud or unexpected noises.Vocal stimming: Some autistic and ADHD individuals use repetitive self-soothing sounds like humming, murmuring, or repeating words to regulate their nervous system.