Are you a Highly Sensitive Person? 4 Possible Signs.
Do you feel your emotions deeply? Do you become easily overwhelmed around loud noises or in crowded spaces? Have you been told you are “too sensitive?”
You might be a highly sensitive person (HSP).
Research by Dr. Elaine Aron has confirmed that this innate biological trait is represented in 15-20% of the population. Here are some other signs that you may be an HSP:
1. Transitions can overwhelm you
Highly sensitive people have a finely tuned nervous system aware of subtleties in their environment. Our nervous systems allow us to experience the world emotionally and physically. In addition to becoming overwhelmed by various sensory stimuli, such as loud noises, crowded spaces, and strong smells, highly sensitive people can become easily overwhelmed during periods of transition. Moving or starting a new job, for example, involves a lot of physical and emotional changes. Because HSPs are acutely aware of subtleties in their environments, the physical change of being in a new house, or the emotional change of interacting with new coworkers is felt on a deep level.
2. You have a low pain tolerance or are easily startled
Do you scare easily if someone sneaks up on you? Do you react more to stubbing your toe or bumping your elbow than others you know? As a sensitive person, your nervous system is wired to experience both physical and emotional experiences more intensely than your non-highly sensitive family and friends. While non-HSPs may feel a welcome rush of adrenaline during a scary movie or haunted house, for example, many HSPs go into sensory overload during these experiences.
3. You search for meaning in your day to day experiences
HSPs are often described as being “sentimental.” You may be deeply affected or brought to tears by music, art, or movies. This strong connection with your emotional experience is frequently accompanied by reflection and meaning making. Big questions such as ‘what is the purpose of life?’ or ‘what does love mean?’ might occupy your thoughts. Journaling, song-writing, or making art can be important ways to make space for processing and meaning making for HSPs.
4. You have low self-esteem
Unfortunately sensitivity has been stigmatized and misunderstood in our society. American culture values risk-takers and adrenaline seekers. For example, children who are excited to ride roller coasters or perform a dance at a birthday party tend to be heavily praised. Furthermore, our mainstream culture is fearful of emotional expression and reinforces tolerating intense amounts of stimulation (long work days, company parties, expectations to be ‘plugged in’ socially at all times). Because HSPs typically do not fit society’s most accepted or celebrated standards, many grow up feeling something is wrong with them. Chronic internalization of this feeling that “something is wrong with me,” leads to low self-esteem over time.
Though not traditionally prized in our society, high sensitivity is a beautiful and valuable trait. Therapy is a powerful place to build self-esteem and learn to accept, embrace, and work with your sensitivity, rather than fighting against it.
Still wondering if you’re an HSP? Click here to take Dr. Aron’s quiz.