Auditory Processing Disorder: If you didn’t see me write it down…

Look… if you didn’t see me write it down, then chances are I only heard the first thing you said and maybe, on a good day, the last thing.

Why? Because I struggle with auditory processing disorder. Auditory processing disorder is yet another arm of sensory processing disorder, but more narrowly focuses on auditory information, specifically in verbal communication.

This is what it looks like. Recently, the heater in my house malfunctioned. I called a repair person who dutifully repaired the issue. Amazing! Heat restored! However, the repair person needed to explain the issue to me, so that I could watch for future incidents. As they stood before me listing off the components and items that needed repair, my brain simply shut off. I could no longer hear what they were saying, but I was numbly smiling and nodding because masking is always a fantastic go-to to hide this dilemma.

Auditory processing disorder generally does not affect all verbal communication, but it does usually make lists or directions a nightmare. So, what can you do about it?

For me, if it's business related, I would generally follow up on all verbal conversations with a quick email. I hide behind the excuse that I like a data trail, but the reality is… I want to make sure I gathered all the needed information. Additionally, I have no shame when it comes to taking notes, and I will carry a notepad with me. I’ll tell the person that what they are saying is important, and I want to make sure I get it right. I have never had anyone not care whether I took notes or not.

Make it stand out

Here are some other tips that may help you.

1.      Face the other person and pay attention to their face and mouth. This will help you focus better and give you a better opportunity to retain some of the information.

2.      Don’t be afraid to use the tools available to you. Ask if you can record the conversation or steer the meeting towards a video platform where you can record it.

3.      Repeat back what you heard. This is called active listening! Don’t just mimic, rephrase the content of the information to ensure that you understand what is being told to you.

4.      Make sure the environment is conducive to your ability to pay attention. Is it too loud or too quiet? Are you being distracted by that flickering light or that weird smell that is coming out of the break room?

Finally, stop being so hard on yourself. Auditory processing disorder can be frustrating and disheartening, however, the strength comes from knowing where you struggle and coming up with a plan beforehand to minimize its impact.