Some people seem to be born with nerves on the outside of their skin. These people tend to be more sensitive than their parents, brothers and sisters, or the kids in their class. They can’t get through a movie (even a comedy!) or a TV commercial without shedding a few tears. The slightest bit of criticism causes them pain, and they empathize with anyone around them.
Chances are, these people are told by everyone, “You’re too sensitive!” Well, the truth is, some people are more sensitive than others. They are sensitive to emotions, energy, sound, light, and other physical stimuli. These people are called Highly Sensitive Person, or HSP for short.
ARE YOU A HIGHLY SENSITIVE PERSON?
Do the following characteristics ring true for you?
YOU’RE VERY EMOTIONAL
Whether positive or negative, you experience emotions intensely, react strongly to them, and cry easily.
YOU’RE VERY COMPASSIONATE AND GENEROUS
You have always been a natural caretaker, seeking to offer comfort and help to those who suffer. You also go out of your way to avoid offending anyone or hurting their feelings.
YOU’RE SENSITIVE TO CRITICISM
Criticism feels less constructive and more personal and painful. You cannot let it roll off your shoulders as others do; therefore, you allow criticism to keep you safe in your comfort zone.
YOU FEEL DIFFERENT FROM EVERYONE ELSE AND SOMETIMES ALONE
You’ve always known, or had it pointed out, that you were somehow different from everyone else. Because other people have told you that you need to “toughen up,” and you see your sensitivity as a weakness and often feel alone.
YOU’RE SENSITIVE TO EXTERNAL STIMULI
While no one around you notices, the buzz of the overhead lights is driving you nuts! So is the sound of your coworkers chewing, the rough fabric of your shirt, and the smell of the extravagant flower arrangement.
YOU OVERTHINK AND WORRY
You notice every detail and overthink what should be a simple decision, like where to go for lunch. You also get stuck in the rehashing and what-if rut.
YOU’RE INTUITIVE
You walk into a room and instantly get a “feel” for it. You know how people are feeling. This is fine when the energy is positive, but when it’s negative… watch out!
YOU’RE OFTEN TIRED AND OVERWHELMED
Because you deal with your emotions and those of others and so much stimulation all day, you quickly become overwhelmed and feel you need to sleep more.
WHAT CAN I DO ABOUT BEING AN HSP?
Living life as an HSP is not easy, and there are some things you can do:
1. See your sensitivity as a positive, not a negative.
2. Remind yourself there is nothing wrong with you; you are not alone.
3. Avoid negative people, places, and situations.
4. Set boundaries with people who take advantage of your compassion.
5. Learn to relax through exercise and meditation.
6. Give yourself the same sympathy and kindness as you give to others, and practice self-compassion.
If at any time you find yourself feeling depressed or anxious because of your sensitivity, then it’s important that you seek the guidance of a therapist who can help you manage your emotions. If you or a loved one are an HSP and would like to seek treatment options, please get in touch with me. I would happily arrange an appointment for you at your earliest convenience.
SOURCE:
The Highly Sensitive Person by Elaine Aron https://hsperson.com/
Together, finding solutions.
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