Understanding Interoception in Occupational Therapy

What is Interoception:

Interoception is the ability to sense the internal condition of one’s body. It refers to how we notice, interpret, and respond to signals that come from within, such as hunger, thirst, fatigue, muscle tension, heart rate, or the need to use the restroom. This internal awareness helps maintain the body’s balance (homeostasis) and plays a key role in self-regulation. When individuals can recognize their body signals, they are better able to respond before discomfort, stress, or anxiety begin to build. Interoception is closely linked to emotional regulation, attention, executive functioning, and participation in daily activities. Difficulties in this area may impact engagement in meaningful occupations.

Addressing Interoception in Occupational Therapy:

Interoception is increasingly integrated into occupational therapy practice across pediatric and adult settings. During assessment and intervention, therapists consider how well a person recognizes and responds to internal body cues. Occupational therapy can support interoceptive awareness through activity-based approaches that help individuals notice body signals and develop strategies to regulate them. By strengthening interoceptive awareness, occupational therapists support improved self-regulation, increased participation, and more successful engagement in everyday life.

Sources:

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1111/1440-1630.12997 https://www.scielo.br/j/cadbto/a/5zZBnyVjKcGC6B7TMwD7pHL/?format=html&lang=en

file:///C:/Users/14099/Downloads/fnins-16-875200%20(3).pdf