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Awareness

Misophonia and Suicide

by Sensory Diversity
written by Sensory Diversity

Suicide is a difficult subject to discuss for those experiencing suicidal thoughts, their families, and the people in their lives. Misophonia is believed to be a neurophysiological condition that leads to severe distress in response to everyday auditory stimuli, such as chewing, sneezing, or knuckle-cracking (Brout, 2018). Given that distress is a primary component of misophonia, it is perhaps unsurprising that studies have linked misophonia to self-harm and suicidal ideation (Edelstein, 2013; Alekri, 2019). However, despite this connection, the link between misophonia and suicide is not a frequent topic of discussion in social media or peer support communities.

In November 2016, Joyce Cohen authored a New York Post article titled “She could hear everything, and it cost her her life.” In the piece, Cohen discussed the death of Marrese, a 52-year-old historian who lived with misophonia. This was one of the first times a link between misophonia and suicide was publicly noted, yet for many years, the issue remained a quiet one within the advocacy and research communities. While this topic is still relatively overlooked by misophonia advocates, new research has emerged confirming the link between suicidal ideation and misophonia.

A study by Simner and Rinaldi concluded, “Adults with misophonia had significantly higher rates of self-harm and suicidal ideation, as well as poorer well-being in several different measures at ages 16 and 17 and 23 and 24 years. Female misophonics were particularly at risk, from as early as their teenage years, though males, too, show elevated self-harm at 24 years compared to non-misophonic peers” (2023). This risk of suicidal ideation and self-harm should serve as a significant motivator for including misophonia in diagnostic manuals and in further mental and neurological health research.

While standard suicide prevention and treatment protocols should always be followed, using a formal suicide risk assessment scale is a crucial next step. These scales provide a structured way to evaluate a client’s risk level and help in developing a safety plan. The Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS) is a well-known and evidence-based tool for this purpose (Columbia Lighthouse Project, n.d.). However, any validated scale would be useful. Clinicians should use these scales and, in addition to standard questions, explore how misophonic triggers and their impact contribute to a client’s suicidal thoughts. For example, a clinician might ask, “Have your thoughts of suicide increased after being exposed to a trigger sound?” or “Do your suicidal feelings stem from a feeling of hopelessness about ever getting away from these sounds?”

Coping skills for misophonia, such as CBT, are also an essential way to help individuals with the condition. CBT can be particularly effective in managing the emotional aftermath of misophonia (Jager, 2020). While there is no definitive treatment that alleviates all misophonia symptoms, support and openness are vital for raising awareness of the potential risks for people with misophonia. Although suicide is an uncomfortable topic for many, including some clinicians, it is important to avoid increasing stigma or reducing the chance of someone asking for help by remaining silent on the issue. Instead, support and awareness are critical for assisting those who are struggling with misophonia and suicidal thoughts.

If You or Someone You Know Needs Help

If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, please remember that you are not alone, and help is available. Reaching out is a sign of strength.

For Immediate Help, Please Contact:

North America

  • Canada:
    • 988 Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call or text 988 anytime. Available 24/7 in English and French.
    • Crisis Services Canada: 1-833-456-4566 (24/7)
    • Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 (for young people)
  • United States:
    • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 anytime. Available 24/7.
    • Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

United Kingdom

  • Samaritans: Call 116 123 (free, 24/7)
  • Papyrus HOPELINEUK: Call 0800 068 4141, text 07860039967 (for young people)

Australia

  • Lifeline: Call 13 11 14 (24/7)
  • Suicide Call Back Service: Call 1300 659 467

New Zealand

  • Lifeline Aotearoa: Call 0800 543 354 or text HELP to 4357
  • Samaritans: Call 0800 726 666 (24/7)

Ireland

  • Samaritans: Call 116 123 (free, 24/7)
  • Pieta House: Call 1800 247 247

South Africa

  • SADAG (South African Depression and Anxiety Group) Suicide Crisis Line: Call 0800 567 567 or SMS 31393
  • Adcock Ingram Depression and Anxiety Helpline: Call 0800 70 80 90

India

  • Vandrevala Foundation: Call 1860-2662-345 or 1800-2333-330
  • AASRA: Call +91-22-27546669

General International Resources

  • Befrienders Worldwide: Visit Befrienders.org to find helplines in various countries.

Misophonia is a serious condition that deserves recognition and effective treatment. By understanding its impact and utilizing available resources, individuals can find strategies to manage their symptoms, improve their quality of life, and mitigate suicide risk.

References

If you or someone you know is considering suicide, seek help immediately. For 24/7 assistance, call 988 for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or text TALK to 741741 to reach the Crisis Text Line.

Brout, J., Edelstein, M., Erfanian, M., Mannino, M., Miller, L.J., Rouw, R.,…Rosenthal, M.Z. (2018). Investigating misophonia: A review of the empirical literature, clinical implications, and a research agenda. Frontiers in Neuroscience, 12(36), 1-13. doi:10.3389/fnins2018.00036.

Edelstein, M., Brang, D., Rouw, R., & Ramachandran, V. S. (2013). Misophonia: physiological investigations and case descriptions. Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, 7(656).

Alekri, J., & Al Saif, F. (2019). Suicidal misophonia: a case report. Psychiatry and Clinical Psychopharmacology, 29(2), 232–237. https://doi.org/10.1080/24750573.2019.1597585

Columbia Lighthouse Project. (n.d.). About the Protocol. Retrieved from https://cssrs.columbia.edu/the-columbia-scale-c-ssrs/about-the-scale/

Jager, I. J., Vulink, N. C. C., Bergfeld, I. O., van Loon, A. J. J. M., & Denys, D. A. J. P. (2020). Cognitive behavioral therapy for misophonia: A randomized clinical trial. Depression and Anxiety, 38(7), 708-718.

Simner J, Rinaldi LJ. Misophonia, self-harm and suicidal ideation. PCN Rep. 2023 Oct 1;2(4):e142. doi: 10.1002/pcn5.142. PMID: 38868724; PMCID: PMC11114359.

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AwarenessCoping

Suicidal Ideation and Misophonia

by Sensory Diversity
written by Sensory Diversity

The Alarming Link to Suicide Risk

Recent studies have shed light on the severe psychological toll misophonia can take. A peer-reviewed study by Simner and Rinaldi (2023) examined a large birth cohort and found a significantly higher prevalence of self-harm and suicidal ideation among adults with misophonia. This association was particularly pronounced in females but also evident in males.

The pathways connecting misophonia to suicide risk are multifaceted:

  • Intense Emotional Distress: The constant involuntary activation of extreme emotions like rage, panic, and disgust in response to everyday sounds is psychologically exhausting. This chronic distress can lead to feelings of overwhelm and hopelessness.
  • Social Isolation and Withdrawal: To avoid triggers, individuals with misophonia often withdraw from social situations, including family meals, school, work, and public spaces. This self-imposed isolation can lead to profound loneliness, depression, and a sense of disconnection, all established risk factors for suicide.
  • Comorbidity with Mental Health Conditions: Misophonia frequently co-occurs with other mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These conditions independently increase suicide risk, and the added burden of misophonia can exacerbate symptoms and further diminish coping abilities.
  • Loss of Control and Hopelessness: The inability to control one’s reactions or to escape triggering environments can instill a deep sense of helplessness and despair. Life can feel like an unending battle against one’s own nervous system, leading to thoughts that escaping life is the only way to escape the triggers.

A case report by Alekri and Al Saif (2019) documented the case of an adolescent female whose misophonia was complicated by two non-fatal suicide attempts, providing a stark example of the potential severity of the condition’s impact.

You can find specific misophonia resources (not directly about suicide but coping) here:
https://misophoniafoundation.com/product-category/free-resources/
https://misophoniafoundation.com/treatment/

If You or Someone You Know Needs Help

If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, please remember that you are not alone, and help is available. Reaching out is a sign of strength.

For Immediate Help, Please Contact:

North America

  • Canada:
    • 988 Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call or text 988 anytime. Available 24/7 in English and French.
    • Crisis Services Canada: 1-833-456-4566 (24/7)
    • Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 (for young people)
  • United States:
    • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 anytime. Available 24/7.
    • Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

United Kingdom

  • Samaritans: Call 116 123 (free, 24/7)
  • Papyrus HOPELINEUK: Call 0800 068 4141, text 07860039967 (for young people)

Australia

  • Lifeline: Call 13 11 14 (24/7)
  • Suicide Call Back Service: Call 1300 659 467

New Zealand

  • Lifeline Aotearoa: Call 0800 543 354 or text HELP to 4357
  • Samaritans: Call 0800 726 666 (24/7)

Ireland

  • Samaritans: Call 116 123 (free, 24/7)
  • Pieta House: Call 1800 247 247

South Africa

  • SADAG (South African Depression and Anxiety Group) Suicide Crisis Line: Call 0800 567 567 or SMS 31393
  • Adcock Ingram Depression and Anxiety Helpline: Call 0800 70 80 90

India

  • Vandrevala Foundation: Call 1860-2662-345 or 1800-2333-330
  • AASRA: Call +91-22-27546669

General International Resources

  • Befrienders Worldwide: Visit Befrienders.org to find helplines in various countries.

Misophonia is a serious condition that deserves recognition and effective treatment. By understanding its impact and utilizing available resources, individuals can find strategies to manage their symptoms, improve their quality of life, and mitigate suicide risk.

Sources

  • Simner, J., & Rinaldi, L. J. (2023). Misophonia, self‐harm and suicidal ideation. Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences Reports, 2(4), e142. Link: PubMed
  • Alekri, J., & Al Saif, F. (2019). Suicidal misophonia: a case report. Psychiatry and Clinical Psychopharmacology, 29(2), 232-237. Link: Taylor & Francis Online
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AwarenessParentsTeens

How to Cope with Misophonia at School for Kids and Teens

by Sensory Diversity
written by Sensory Diversity

Coping with misophonia at school is a conversation that comes up often for me with clients. There are numerous triggers present in a classroom at any given time. These can include pen clicking, leg jiggling/bouncing/shaking, chewing, tapping noises, clock ticking, and more. This is further exasperated by the lack of choice many students have in their environment. Classrooms and classmates are picked without their direct input in most grade-school scenarios and there are limited opportunities to take breaks from these triggers—unless, of course, the child has an accessibility plan, but even then, this is not 100% effective. The International Misophonia Foundation provides resources to parents including back-to-school coping skills., as well as an upcoming webinar.

Misophonia Coping Skills for Kids and Teens in School

Date: September 18th

Time: 6pm Eastern Time

Price: $125

The goal of this live event is to provide valuable support and information, including:

  • Practical coping skills for navigating a school environment
  • Discussions on potential accommodations
  • An overview of misophonia
  • A dedicated question and answer period for personalized feedback

The following tips can be helpful for students in kindergarten to high school. Your child’s therapist, mental health worker, or pediatrician can assist by helping to write letters supporting any accommodations for misophonia. A study by Porcaro et al (2019) found that accommodations for misophonia are helpful in an academic environment.

The choice of where one’s desk is placed can be helpful for misophonia since there are often spots in the classroom where it can be easier to hide visual and auditory triggers. For example, some might feel more comfortable in a back corner, while others might prefer to be by the door, or in front of the class in the corner. There is no perfect spot, so which place should be the accommodation for the child should be determined in their particular circumstances. The child’s choice is the most important part of this accommodation.

The ability to leave the classroom when possible is a helpful accommodation because calming down the nervous system requires leaving the environment, as noted by Jennifer Brout, PsyD in her parent’s guide. While this can be hard to arrange, it is an important way to help a child cope. Having their desk moved to the hallway or having another room to go to work in while it is not instruction time can make a difference on the level of exposure during the day.

No food allowed in the classroom can be a helpful accommodation for those with misophonia. Unfortunately, some classrooms allow food due to other children’s conditions such as ADHD, hypoglycemia, diabetes, and other situations where food is necessary. Schools can balance this by having a designated area for food when necessary, such as the child who is eating (or the one with misophonia) leaving during these times.

Downtime once at home is an important part of reducing overall stress. The can include time alone in their room, or a sensory space such as a sensory tent with sensory devices that can help calm the child. Homework, activities, and supper time should be delayed until the child has had time to calm down after a long day of sensory-stimuli.

Fidgeting devices can be helpful for staying calm while exposed to triggers. While this does not eliminate the trigger, the proprioceptive input of squeezing a squish ball or hand gripper is helpful for reducing stress in the moment.

For college and university students, there is often more variety in timing, living situations, and the ability to choose one’s schedule. There are also far more options for online schooling once the child becomes a young adult. I personally finished school at an online university and can attest that the quality of education has increased immensely in the past two decades. I encourage parents of teenagers and those looking for secondary education to search for these institutions. Several include Capella, Athabasca, and Yorkville.

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Gaming

EA Should Re-Think Accessibility for The Sims 4

by Sensory Diversity
written by Sensory Diversity

“The Sims 4” is a popular life simulation game that offers players an immersive experience in creating and managing virtual lives. However, for individuals with sensory sensitivities—such as those associated with autism, sensory processing disorder (SPD), vestibular disorders, migraines, misokinesia, and ADHD—certain in-game elements can pose challenges.

Loading Spinners

Animated loading spinners are common in games to indicate progress. However, continuous or rapid animations can be overstimulating for individuals with sensory sensitivities, potentially leading to discomfort or sensory overload.

Highlighting Objects and Blink Object Change

In “The Sims 4,” objects may flash or blink to indicate selection or changes. Such visual effects can be jarring for players with sensory processing issues, triggering discomfort or even migraines due to sudden visual stimuli.

Calendar Interface

The in-game calendar, designed to manage events and schedules, might present a complex and cluttered interface. For individuals with ADHD or cognitive processing challenges, this can be overwhelming, making it difficult to navigate and plan within the game.

Blinking Text Caret

The blinking cursor in text input fields is a standard feature. However, for some players, especially those with misokinesia (a strong reaction to seeing repetitive movements), this constant blinking can be distracting or irritating.

Ambient Sounds

Background sounds like whistling or chewing are intended to enhance realism. Yet, for individuals with misophonia (sensitivity to specific sounds), these noises can cause significant discomfort.

Additional Considerations

  • Camera Movements: Sudden or smooth camera transitions can induce dizziness or disorientation in players with vestibular disorders.
  • Color Schemes: Certain color contrasts or brightness levels may be harsh for individuals with light sensitivity, common in conditions like migraines.

Recommendations for Enhanced Accessibility

To make “The Sims 4” more inclusive, consider implementing the following options:

  • Customizable Animations: Allow players to adjust or disable certain animations, such as loading spinners or object highlights, to reduce visual overstimulation.
  • Simplified Interfaces: Offer alternative, less cluttered versions of complex interfaces like the calendar to aid those with cognitive processing challenges.
  • Adjustable Cursor Settings: Provide options to modify the blink rate or appearance of the text caret to accommodate players with misokinesia.
  • Sound Customization: Enable players to toggle specific ambient sounds on or off, catering to those with sound sensitivities.
  • Camera Control Options: Include settings that allow players to adjust camera movement speed or switch to a static camera mode to prevent disorientation.
  • Color and Brightness Settings: Implement customizable color schemes and brightness controls to accommodate light sensitivity.

By incorporating these accessibility features, “The Sims 4” can provide a more comfortable and enjoyable gaming experience for individuals with various sensory sensitivities.

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iphone models that can be upgraded to the next major software release ios 26 when it releases in september 2025
AdvocacyDeveloper AccessibilityUI Accessibility

Sensory Accessibility Considerations in iOS 26

by Sensory Diversity
written by Sensory Diversity

I have downloaded and tested the beta for iOS 26 on my iPhone 14 pro max to get a general idea on how the software is working for those of us with sensory disorders. As a note, I always have accessibility features on for reduced motion and reduced transparency.

I do feel like many features of the new IOS are lacking the ability to turn them off and change especially layout shifts. For some, having very transparent (even with the setting of reduced) menu bars where content goes behind can be hard for persons with sensory disorders or attention problems to deal with. All problems I’m mentioning are with existing accessibility features.

You can see what I mean in the photos above. I have sent a report to apple, and will say that I do believe there should be more work to make accessi

ble features with the new “glass ui” which can feel jittery and aggressive for persons who are sensitive to movement and layout shifts. I felt the need to downgrade back from iOS 26 to 19 for day to day use. Not only because running a beta on my main device is not a great idea but because I worry that these features will be disorienting or dizzying over time.

 

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Coping

Drive-In Theatres are Awesome for Watching Movies With Misophonia

by Sensory Diversity
written by Sensory Diversity

I’m writing this the day after my husband and I drove 1 and a half hours from our home to watch two movies at a drive-in theatre. There are only a handful of drive-ins left where I live on the Atlantic coast of Canada, with probably 5 of them across 3 provinces. However, we are lucky enough to live near one of the operational drive-in theatres. As a person with misophonia this was the best experience at the movies that I’ve had in years. While many with misophonia are triggered by popcorn chewing, snacking and more, my main concern is the leg shaking, loud chattering, and just in general lack of control of the environment.

At the drive in… none of this was an issue. My husband and I were safely in our car, and whatever snacks were present we had agreed on together. The Drive-in experience was absolutely fantastic. I felt safe and comfortable in our car, and while there were a few flashing headlights here and there– I’ll take that any day over seats being kicked, loud chewers, chatters, phones beeping and more. The current state of regular theatres is one that I loathe as a person with misophonia, but the drive-in provided an opportunity to see two new movies that I would have waited until they came out streaming otherwise.

As a movie-lover, this was the best of both worlds. I had comfort and enjoyment, without the usual concerns I would have (will I see somebody moving in the seat next to me, will there be a loud person, will I have my seat kicked?).

For the record, we saw two unrelated movies, which both happened to be ones I wanted to see. We saw Lilo and Stitch and Final Destination Bloodlines, both of which I thoroughly enjoyed on the big-screen, in a trigger-free environment. There were far less sensory concerns than other environments and my husband and I went for a walk before the show (we got there early to get a good parking spot). I will say that this is the way movies should be seen- peacefully, with your own space, but still in a way that offers the opportunity of the big screen. Movies also sound amazing on car speakers, by the way!

I think it’s time that drive-ins make a major comeback.

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AdvocacyDeveloper Accessibility

To Razer: Accessibility Request for Silent Gaming Mouse

by Sensory Diversity
written by Sensory Diversity

The following is a letter sent on behalf of the IMF to Razer, asking for considerations of a silent gaming mouse.

To Whom It May Concern at Razer,

I am writing on behalf of the sensory-sensitive and neurodivergent communities to raise an important concern regarding the current lineup of Razer mice—specifically the auditory feedback from the left and right click buttons.

For individuals with misophonia, PTSD, and other neurological conditions, the sharp, repetitive clicking sounds of traditional gaming mice can be deeply distressing. As a result, many people are excluded from fully enjoying gaming, streaming, or professional digital work, especially when their condition is triggered by noise sensitivity.

This issue goes beyond individual discomfort—it impacts relationships and households. In many couples where one partner is neurodivergent and the other is a gamer, the persistent clicking sounds can cause daily friction, stress, and emotional distance. This seemingly minor design aspect has real social and emotional consequences, turning gaming—often a source of joy—into a source of conflict. A sensory-friendly option could ease this burden, improve harmony at home, and make inclusive gaming possible.

Currently, there is only one sensory-friendly gaming mouse on the market with silent click buttons that also supports complex gameplay needs (MOJO by Contour Design). However, it lacks the side buttons and ergonomic design gamers require for MMORPGs, MOBAs, and other high-input formats. This leaves a significant gap in the market that a company like Razer is uniquely positioned to fill.

At Misophonia International—a leading resource for misophonia education and advocacy—we see over 100,000 unique visitors each year. These are individuals and families actively searching for tools and technologies that make daily life more manageable. A sensory-friendly gaming mouse with silent left/right click buttons and side buttons for gaming functions would be a groundbreaking development for this underserved market.

The sensory community is deeply engaged and passionate about solutions that meet their needs. Should Razer develop such a mouse, it would be met with enthusiasm, widespread support, and eager promotion from neurodivergent gamers, creators, and advocates alike. This would not only address a crucial accessibility issue but also open up a valuable new market segment.

Thank you for your time and consideration. We would be excited to discuss how we might support such a development and amplify it to the communities that need it most.

Warm regards,
Shaylynn Hayes-Raymond
Director, International Misophonia Foundation

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AdvocacyUI Accessibility

Sensory Accessibility in World of Warcraft

by Sensory Diversity
written by Sensory Diversity

I am writing based on sensory concerns in World of Warcraft specifically. I am the Director of The International Misophonia Foundation and have been a WoW player since 2010. Unfortunately, due to my sensory disorder becoming more severe over time, I have had to stop playing WoW regularly—I know I am not alone as we have had feedback from many others during our time advocating.

My total time played on my main character is 209 days, 16 hours. I have played for over 5000 hours in the past but can no longer enjoy my favourite pastime as my disability needs have increased. I would like to commend Blizzard for adding more accessibility feature—this is wonderful to see, but I do believe there are more features that could be beneficial to those with sensory disorders, migraines, autism, ADHD, and more.

– Pulsing and spinning on map indicators (as well as loading spinners and the blinking text caret in chat features and throughout the blizzard app.

– The ability to disable specific misophonia trigger sounds—chewing and whistling—while allowing other sounds.

– The ability to hide other players (referencing agoraphobia settings for changes, as well as the corgi toy that allows you to change other players and NPCs into a corgi—I reference this because I believe similar technology could be used to toggle on a sensory mode to not show other players). While we would still need to know where other players are, an outline or shadow without seeing the player jump/have spell effects/(shaman elements)/etc would be preferred. Rather than the full graphic it could display just a shadow. This would be useful for those who are easily overstimulated by other players.

– The ability to have quest markers above heads “?” “!” be static and not bounce as they currently do.

– Have flashing highlights turned off example “you have unspent talent points” which then flashes and pulses.

I believe these changes would have a significant impact on players who have had to stop playing WoW due to their neurological conditions. These changes would show a move toward a more inclusive game, which I would happily continue to play and subscribe to. The distress felt is more than anxiety or annoyance, it is a fight-flight-freeze reaction.

On behalf of The International Misophonia Foundation,

Shaylynn Hayes-Raymond

Director

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AdvocacyUI Accessibility

UI & WoW: Accessibility and Sensory-Friendly Options in Blizzard Games

by Sensory Diversity
written by Sensory Diversity

The following is a letter to Blizzard Entertainment, written by Shaylynn Hayes-Raymond:

Dear Blizzard Accessibility and Development Teams,

I hope this message finds you well.

I’m writing to raise awareness about the accessibility needs of individuals with sensory processing disorders, including conditions such as misophonia, autism spectrum disorders, and vestibular disorders. While Blizzard has made many strides toward accessibility, there are still specific visual and auditory elements in your games and platforms—particularly World of Warcraft and the Battle.net app—that can be significantly triggering for people with sensory challenges.

Some of the most common triggers include:

  • Spell Effects: Repetitive or explosive visual spell effects, especially in crowded areas, can be overwhelming and distressing.

  • Loading Spinners/Animations: Constant or rapidly looping UI animations such as spinners can be distracting or triggering.

  • Extreme Motion/Camera Shake: Fast camera movement, screen shaking, or high-motion sequences can induce nausea, dizziness, or sensory overload.

  • Quest Icons and Overhead Effects: Persistent quest icons above characters’ heads and visual effects such as the spinning elemental animations around shaman characters can create continuous motion in the visual field, which may be overstimulating or disorienting for some players.

I’d like to suggest a few improvements that would make a major difference:

  • A Universal Option to Disable Spell Effects: While there are some in-game options already, a more thorough, accessible toggle to completely disable or significantly reduce all visual spell effects—both for the player and others—would be very helpful.

  • An Option to Hide Other Players Entirely: On RP and PvE servers in particular, the ability to hide all other players (or at least their animations/effects and overhead indicators like quest icons) would drastically reduce visual noise and allow for a more focused, inclusive gameplay experience.

  • UI Motion Reduction: Implementing a setting similar to “Reduce Motion” in operating systems that limits unnecessary animations across the Battle.net app and in-game menus would benefit many players.

  • Toggle for Overhead Effects: Providing an option to disable non-essential floating icons and spinning effects (such as quest markers or shaman totems/elements) would significantly ease the experience for those sensitive to persistent movement or visual clutter.

These changes would go a long way toward making Blizzard’s experiences more inclusive for players with sensory processing needs, allowing them to enjoy your games without physical or emotional discomfort.

Thank you for considering these suggestions. I’d be happy to provide more context or connect you with individuals from the sensory disorder community if needed.

On behalf of The International Misophonia Foundation,
Shaylynn Hayes-Raymond
Director, The IMF

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AdvocacyDeveloper AccessibilityUI Accessibility

Apps for Documents Without Blinking Cursor (Text Caret) on iPad and iPhone

by Sensory Diversity
written by Sensory Diversity

If you have a vestibular disorder, ADHD, misokinesia, or other sensory processing condition, you may be aware that most applications for iPad and iPhone have a blinking cursor. This includes Word and Google docs. I’ve been on the hunt to find the perfect app since I cannot tolerate the blinking cursor. Apple thankfully removed it for users who check it off, but this only works in programs using NSText/Cocoa. I just spent roughly 4 hours testing apps to see which ones had no cursor blink. Luckily, I found 4 options other than Apple’s default Pages/Notes (to be honest, I was worried).

Pages: Your run of the mill apple software, Pages works as expected, and has no blinking cursor. However, there is no compatibility with docx other than opening and saving, so if you need to go back and forth this is limiting. $0 to use.

Just Write: Pretty much the exact same as pages with RTF, but has a very slick and nice interface. A very simple and minimalist no distraction editor. Great if you need 0 stimuli when working. Free with Ads, or pay a one time $4.99 fee to remove ads.

Office Word: Finicky in landscape mode (menu is only horizontal). Roughly $40 a year (note, I am in Canada so your price may vary). Honestly, I found this one to be just too finicky to bother.

Word Editor: Straight forward, no fuss, no muss. Opens documents directly to edit mode without hassle, in landscape or portrait. Roughly $40 a year (note, I am in Canada so your price may vary).

Office 7: Good set of features. AI included and several file converters. I found this app to be the best to use and most robust. Roughly $70 a year (note, I am in Canada so your price may vary). While the price is hefty, this includes the entire suite of office apps, which is something to take into an account if you want a full office suite replacement for that ghastly cursor.

For those looking for a viable option on Mac, the best I’ve found so far that can rival Microsoft Office is Nisus Writer Pro (with Document Writer being a 1 time purchase option, but has limited paragraph options).

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