The Highly Sensitive Person

What is the Highly Sensitive Person?

The Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) is an indication toward a way of being and perceiving, and a depth of processing the world. Dr. Elaine Aron (www.hsperson.com), in her seminal research about this characteristic, outlines the consistent traits that belong to this small segment of the population. Being highly sensitive is not the same as introversion, although it shares some traits. There are extroverted people who are energized by being around others and in the world, but who also identify as being highly sensitive. Being highly sensitive is not a diagnosis or disorder and I hold that it is a positive experience when recognized and responded to in supportive environments.

The experience of being an HSP looks different for everyone. However, there are some fundamental features on this spectrum of being. If you, or someone you know, is an HSP they may experience some of the following:

  • Attuned to the mood in a room and often perceives others’ feelings and notices subtle changes in someone's body language or verbal tone

  • Overstimulated by bright lights, strong smells, coarse fabrics, or strong noises

  • Feels rattled when there is lot to do in a short amount of time

  • Experiences both pleasant and unpleasant emotions strongly

  • Avoids exposure to unpleasant images, such as violent media (movies, television, and news)

  • Needs time alone during days with high demand

  • Needs naps or a darkened or other quiet room to experience privacy and relief

  • Makes it a high priority to arrange life to avoid upsetting or overwhelming situations

  • Especially appreciates and enjoys delicate or fine scents, tastes, sounds, or works of art

  • Has a rich and complex inner life

Life for an HSP is full of color, richness, and depth. Possessing the gift of sensitivity in a loud and fast world can create overwhelm and a desire to hide.

Why I Focus on HSP

First, I am an empath and a Highly Sensitive Person. I spent so much of my early life feeling like I was responsible for everything and everyone around me, and somehow feeling like I was doing it all wrong, like I was all wrong. Once I found Dr. Aron’s work, I understood that my experience was valid and that I could nurture my sensitivity instead of growing a thick skin. I found new ways to relate to myself and others in ways that minimized the overwhelm while emphasizing my unique experiences.

My lived experience fuels my passion to help others identify if they are on the spectrum of the Highly Sensitive Person and to help illuminate their unique way of perceiving, processing, and responding to their environment. There is freedom in understanding ourselves and strengthening that relationship to help decrease emotional tension and improve the way we think about ourselves, others, and the world.

How Understanding HSP Can Help

If you or someone you love may be a Highly Sensitive Person, working in therapy with that specific awareness in mind improves the likelihood of finding coping strategies and thought patterns that align with the specific process and experiences of an HSP. Understanding that HSP traits are normal can be validating, which helps to decrease stress. Knowing that you aren’t alone creates space for hope and the possibility of changing negative thoughts about self into greater understanding, compassion, and vitality.