Auditory Processing Disorder in Adulthood: 5 steps to consider

Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) is often thought of as a childhood issue, but it can persist into adulthood, impacting multiple areas of daily life. For adults living with APD, the experience can be filled with challenges such as misunderstandings and self-doubt. If you think you might have APD, following those steps can change your perspective on your own difficulties, promoting the confidence and power to live the way you want.

1- Understanding what APD is and whether it explains your problems

Auditory Processing Disorder affects how people understand speech and non-speech sounds, especially in complex acoustic environments. Therefore, adults with APD may face issues like difficulty understanding spoken language, particularly in noisy settings. For example, in a busy restaurant, a person with APD might struggle to follow a conversation, leading to feelings of exclusion, frustration and fatigue.

Symptoms can vary significantly among individuals. Some individuals may struggle to distinguish similar-sounding words, while others may have difficulty recalling verbal instructions. Understanding these symptoms and knowing whether APD explains them is a powerful tool, as many adults with APD have spent years feeling misunderstood. They may have been unfairly labelled as inattentive or uncooperative, which can lead to a poor self-image. Therefore, receiving a formal diagnosis can be a profound relief, as it will validate your experiences and provide a clear understanding that these challenges are a condition, not a personal failing. It empowers you to navigate your daily life with confidence, enabling you to seek the support you need and develop effective coping strategies.

2- Self-Acceptance: A Key to Confidence

Acceptance is the second step and a vital part of living with APD. It entails acknowledging the disorder's impact without letting it define who you are.

Many adults with APD feel pressured to meet societal standards for communication, and this constant pressure sometimes leads to mental health issues. However, accepting one's unique way of processing information can foster self-worth independent of external validation. Instead of living in fear and anxiety or adopting a self-deceived or defensive perspective, you will embrace how you are and remove all the pressure you feel to "be perfect", as in fact, no one is perfect, and no one must be judged by who they are. This self-acceptance can foster a sense of empowerment and confidence, and then, ironically, when you accept yourself, you begin to see positive changes...

3- Celebrating Your Unique Perspective

Accepting yourself often results in a unique perspective on communication and social interaction. Adults with APD may develop strong problem-solving skills and heightened creativity as they navigate their challenges. By recognising strengths, instead of only focusing on weaknesses, individuals can promote personal growth and self-appreciation. Instead of viewing APD solely as a limitation, it can be appreciated as one aspect of a broader identity that encompasses resilience and adaptability. This celebration of your unique perspective can make you feel appreciated and valued, promoting personal growth and self-appreciation.

Therefore, you will start seeing the "glass half-full" and maintain an optimistic outlook, instead of focusing on what is lacking.

4- Adopting strategies

As part of accepting who you are, you will value your strengths and stop being defensive about your weaknesses. You will not avoid challenges; you will, on the other hand, use strategies for managing them. Here are some practical tips to enhance daily life:

• Visual Aids: Incorporating visuals to improve understanding. Diagrams, charts, or written instructions usually clarify communication. For instance, an employee could use a checklist to track tasks and instructions, ensuring nothing is missed or misunderstood.

• Quiet Environments: Finding quieter spaces for conversations can significantly improve comprehension. For example, the individual might opt to hold discussions in a quiet corner of a café rather than at a bustling table.

• Active Listening Techniques: Techniques such as repeating back what was said or asking for clarification can help ensure a clear understanding of the message.

• Utilising Technology: Listening assistive devices, such as remote microphone technology, can support individuals with APD, as they are very effective in overcoming speech-in-noise issues, bypassing background noise, and enhancing speech clarity in complex listening environments.

• Professional Guidance, including auditory training: Working with an audiologist can provide personalised strategies, deficit-specific auditory training and support tailored to individual needs.

5- Final Thoughts

Like any other condition, APD presents challenges but also offers opportunities for growth and self-discovery. The perspective you want to adopt is your choice. By cultivating self-awareness and self-acceptance, you can embrace your unique attributes and be your authentic self with courage and without shame.