I don't have any severe sensitivities in terms of the five senses, but some that have been noticeable or worsened at different times.

As for olfactory sensitivities, I dislike most all perfumes and colognes so never wear them and am even picky about underarm deodorants and body/hair wash products. However, most natural smells don't bother me at all.

When it comes to auditory sensitivities, I do become anxious when there are numerous sounds happening simultaneously. It's hard for me to concentrate on one in such cases. For example, if music is on, my husband is talking to me, and some car alarm is going off, I become anxious and it is all noise. Perhaps that relates to some distress from past racing thoughts? I just assume that. Plus, I have a past history of having musical hallucinations (or sometimes the sound of multiple DJs talking with music that becomes noise). That was severely distressing at some points.

I've never really had gustatory sensitivities. I am not a picky eater in terms of disliking any particular food or food ingredient, but I do know what delicious preparations are compared to less delicious ones. I am a very enthusiastic and good cook. I confess that I do scrutinize restaurant food (and even my own food sometimes) if it is not well prepared. I can be the annoying restaurant customer that when asked if a meal is good, is willing to say either no or what could be improved about it. Unfortunately, most of the time they ignore such feedback. There was a time when my sense of taste was reduced and nothing tasted particularly special. I believe that was either depression or medication-induced. I recall it was when I was taking Depakote and Invega and was quite depressed. My sense of taste was restored after that period.

I don't have any major tactile sensitivities. Well, maybe I'm a little ticklish, but I otherwise don't mind being touched. In fact, I have no problem being in tight quarters. I used to like sitting right up against people or in crowded buses. I'm physically affectionate with those I love, though not so much with strangers or casual friends. The latter is more cultural (my family's tendency).

The only visual sensitivity I have is related to sunlight or glares of light. That can spark mood elevation in me. I believe it has also brought on silent migraine auras and maybe even seizure activity.

I share with others that when I'm hypomanic/manic everything seems better (more beautiful, more delicious, more lovely sounds).