Smell Infographic

Covers olfactory sensitivity in neurodivergent individuals - from overwhelming scents in public spaces to the use of familiar smells as a calming or grounding tool.

Olfactory processing differences mean that many neurodivergent people experience smells with greater intensity or in ways that can be overwhelming or disorienting. This infographic explains how smell sensitivity affects daily life and what adjustments can help.

Common experiences

• Overwhelming sensitivity to perfumes, cleaning products or food smells
• Difficulty concentrating in environments with strong odours
• Using familiar, comforting scents as a self-regulation tool
• Reduced sensitivity to smell in some individuals

Practical adjustments

Fragrance-free policies in workplaces, advance notice of cleaning schedules, and allowing individuals to use familiar scents for comfort can all help.

Who is this for?

Employers, educators, healthcare professionals, parents and carers, and anyone supporting neurodivergent people in daily life.

About the creator

This resource was created by Loren Snow, founder and lead trainer at Neurodiverse Training. As a neurodivergent individual himself, Loren brings lived experience and over a decade of professional expertise to every resource he creates.