When life is too loud: what are sound sensitivities?

How do you feel as you move through a busy space — like an airport, a city street or a crowded shopping centre?

For some of us, these spaces are energising — being among the rush of people and the noise of the crowds. But for others, these situations can be a little much.

And for some neurodivergent people — especially those with sensory issues — being in these public spaces can be utterly overwhelming, even harmful. That's a problem when you want or need to use them just like everybody else.

Today, audio engineer and producer Amelia Geiss takes you inside their mind — for a first-hand perspective of what it's like to move through public spaces as someone with sound sensitivities.

We'll hear about how these sensitivities manifest in the brain — strategies for managing them — and building public spaces that are accessible for everyone.

If you're looking for something to listen to next, why not check out our episode, How the drive to be perfect is linked to eating disorders.