Highly Sensitive Person
To feel intensely is not a symptom of weakness, it is the trademark of the truly alive and compassionate.
If you're finding yourself deeply affected by the world around you – noticing subtle details others miss, feeling emotions intensely, or becoming easily overwhelmed by busy environments – you might be a highly sensitive person (HSP). This isn't just about being "too sensitive"; it's a distinct personality trait, sometimes also called sensory processing sensitivity (SPS), that's been studied by psychologists since the 1990s.
We all have things we're sensitive to, but for HSPs, this sensitivity operates at a deeper level within the nervous system. This means that HSPs experience physical sensations, emotions, and social interactions more profoundly. While this can sometimes be challenging, it also brings unique strengths, like deep empathy, rich inner experiences, and a strong appreciation for beauty and detail.
Think of empathy as a spectrum – some people experience it more intensely than others. While having empathy is a wonderful quality, experiencing it at a very high level can sometimes be draining. This is where therapy can be incredibly helpful. It's not about changing who you are, but about learning strategies to manage the intensity of your experiences and take care of your well-being.
“We cannot be more sensitive to pleasure without being more sensitive to pain.” - Alan Watts
HSP is not a mental health diagnosis; think of it more as a set of personality traits that influence how you experience the world. Being an HSP simply means you're more responsive to both positive and negative stimuli. It's about how you process information and experiences, not about having a mental illness.
Some common experiences for HSPs include:
Finding intense or violent movies and TV shows overwhelming: You might find that these kinds of media leave you feeling disturbed or unsettled long after you've watched them.
Being deeply touched by beauty: Whether it's a piece of art, a natural landscape, a kind gesture, or even a moving advertisement, you might find yourself profoundly moved by beauty in its various forms.
Feeling overwhelmed by sensory overload: Things like noisy crowds, bright lights, strong smells, or uncomfortable clothing can quickly become overwhelming and draining.
Needing regular downtime: This isn't just about enjoying quiet time; it's a real need to retreat and recharge, especially after busy or stimulating days. You might find yourself drawn to quiet, dark spaces to recover.
Having a rich inner world: You may have a vibrant inner life filled with deep thoughts, strong emotions, and a rich imagination.
As someone who identifies as an HSP, know that in working with me this part of you will be deeply seen and understood. Our work together can provide you with the support and coping skills you need to navigate the world in a way that feels balanced and empowering, allowing you to embrace your sensitivity as a strength.
