Obviously, “sensitive” is often in the eye of the beholder. Everyone has times when they feel more susceptible to the temperature, noise, textures, and general vibrations in their environment. This is frustrating but normal. Almost always, it passes rather quickly.
However, the existence of a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) is also a psychological concept. It’s not a diagnosis but it is certainly a reality. In daily life, such people often get called “too sensitive” or “over-sensitive.” But it’s more than that. To get technical, it is related to sensory-processing sensitivity and may warrant you asking for help.
Signs of an HSP
Besides comments from people in your life, you can watch for signs like:
Emotions are experienced intensely
You need lots of down time and alone time to recuperate
Criticism really gets to you
Overthinking and worrying
You rely on your intuition which often seems to be right
You display deep compassion and generosity
In addition, you’re probably a loner. You have close friendships but don’t usually feel like you fit in. As a result, your inner life is complex and deep thoughts are the norm. You are openly and unashamedly moved by beauty, art, nature, and example of human kindness
To bring it back to sensory-processing sensitivity, you may intuitively avoid any or all of the following:
Tight or itchy clothing
Big crowds
Noisy situations
Bright lights
Violent or intense movies or TV shows
In a digital culture where social media “friends” are deleted on a whim and overstimulation is standard, the HSP can dwell in a state of being perpetually overwhelmed. This is precisely why both self-care and therapy can be so useful.
Self-Help Steps to Consider
It begins with identifying yourself as a Highly Sensitive Person and then factoring that into your daily plans and decisions, e.g.
Accept your HSP-ness as something that makes you unique
Treat yourself with the same kindness you treat others
Actively schedule positive moments every day
Practice saying no when you need a break
Practice daily self-care
Share your perspectives and needs with trusted friends and family members
Set up your living space as a “sanctuary” of sorts
How Can Therapy Help a Highly Sensitive Person?
You might think therapy is for people with “real” problems. Well, guess what? Therapy is for everyone and this very much includes an HSP. Your weekly sessions will be your sanctuary from which you can practice bringing that mindset into a hectic, highly distractible world.
Here are just a few of the many benefits you can experience by seeking help as a Highly Sensitive Person:
You gain validation and don’t feel like the weirdo or the “over-sensitive” one
The therapy setting is the epitome of a quiet, safe space
Gaining the ability to name your emotions and identify their triggers
Developing tools and healthy coping mechanisms for when you feel overwhelmed
Understanding the importance of treating yourself with self-compassion
Feeling a deeper connection to your loved ones
Getting better at setting and working toward your goals
Seeing yourself as enough and as more than capable
Living a life that makes you happy, relaxed, and mindful more often than ever before
Let’s Connect
Working with a therapist is a giant step toward all of the above. And remember: Being an HSP can make something like a loud party seem unbearable. But that same sensory processing tendency can help you experience positive emotions and experiences more intensely. Flip the perspective and use your superpower to bask in the glow of a smile, a brilliant work of art, an accomplishment, or a quiet moment.
If you’re an HSP, I’d love to meet you and speak with you soon about how anxiety therapy can help you as a highly sensitive person. Email me, or if you’d like to read more about Anxiety Treatment, click here.