Do you feel everything more deeply and intensely than others? After a social interaction, do you feel exhausted and need time to yourself? Have you ever been called too sensitive? If any of this resonates with you, you might be a Highly Sensitive Person(HSP).
A lot of people have not heard of this term before. But it is estimated that close to 20% of the world’s population would fall under this category. There are many positive characteristics that come with being an HSP. But, there are just as many challenges that people with this characteristic face. HSPs have a unique way of looking at the world and the people in it. They often see things in a different light that many don’t.
Yet the sensitivities and traits that they possess can be really challenging to deal with. And it also means that they likely deal with some sort of mental health concern such as anxiety or depression.
But maybe now you are wondering if you could be an HSP. Let’s go over 5 more of the most common traits of a highly sensitive person.
5 Traits Of A Highly-Sensitive Person
1. Empathetic
For those who have heard of HSP, this is the trait that they are most familiar with. Having empathy is when a person can understand and actually feel the emotions of others. That’s why sometimes you might have to turn the news off if it is upsetting you too much. Or if you cry a lot during movies or television shows.
For an HSP, you have a deeper connection with others. And it might seem crazy, but you can actually pick up on something being wrong with a person without them actually saying something is bothering them. HSPs are known to pick up on others’ energy and are more impacted when they are around toxic or negative personalities.
2. Sensory Inputs Can Really Bother Them
Not only are HSPs sensitive in terms of their emotions, but they are also more sensitive to their senses. Does too much noise bother you? Do you struggle to avoid certain sensations from touch or taste? Sensory overload is another trait that a lot of HSPs have, although it is really not known why this is.
3. Easily Overwhelmed
HSPs take so much in from their environments. From the energy of other people, the environment, and the sights and sounds they are surrounded by. For an HSP, it almost seems as if too much is always going on. The way they process things is so different (and there’s nothing wrong with that.) However, that can make getting through the day more difficult.
Because of this, HSPs are more likely to become stressed out easier, which can lead to symptoms of anxiety and make everything feel that much worse.
4. Sensitive To Pain
Many HSPs are also sensitive to pain. While sensitivity to pain is normally associated with chronic illnesses such as fibromyalgia—those who are highly sensitive also experience this. Most often, it is because they have a heightened sensitivity to their senses, which sends the nervous system into overdrive.
5. Being Shy Or Introverted
A lot of people with HSP are also considered to be shy, although not everyone is. Because of how sensitive they are to any environment, most HSPs prefer to be by themselves. It’s not being anti-social or not wanting to hang out with their friends. But most social situations take a lot out of an HSP.
What To Do If You Think You Are An HSP
If any of these traits resonate with you, there’s a very good chance you fall into the category of an HSP. There is nothing wrong with this, but on your part, it just takes a little bit more work to manage everything.
As a licensed therapist, I have worked with others just like you to help them manage their sensitivities. Reach out to I can help you learn how anxiety therapy can help you.
