Wondering if you are a sensitive person?
Some people seemed to be born with nerves outside of their skin; these people tend to be more sensitive than their parents, brothers and sisters, all the kids in their class. They cannot get through a movie (even a comedy) or a TV commercial without shedding a few tears. The slightest bit of criticism causes them real pain, and they are empathetic to anyone around them.
Chances are these people have been told that they are too sensitive. Well the truth is, some people are more sensitive than others; they are not only vulnerable to emotions but also to sound, light and other physical stimuli. These people are, literally called Highly Sensitive People or HSP for short.
Are you a Highly Sensitive Person?
Do the following characteristics ring true for you?
You are very emotional.
Where positive or negative, you experience emotions intensely and react strongly to them.
You are very compassionate and generous.
You have always been a natural caretaker, seeking to offer comfort and help to those who suffer. You also go out of your way to avoid offending anyone or hurting their feelings.
You are sensitive to criticism.
Criticism doesn’t feel constructive as much as it feels personal and painful. You are not able to let it roll off your shoulders as others do and therefore allow criticism to keep you safe in your comfort zone.
You feel different from everyone else and sometimes alone.
You’ve always known or had it pointed out to you, that you were somehow different from everyone else. Because other people have told you that you need to toughen up, you see your sensitivity as a weakness and often feel alone.
You are sensitive to external stimuli.
While no one else around you seems to notice that the buzz of the overhead lights but it is driving you nuts, as is the sound of your coworkers chewing, the rough fabric of your shirt and the smell of the extravagant flower arrangement.
You overthink and worry.
You notice every detail and overthink what should be a simple decision, like where to go for lunch. You also get stuck in the rehashing and ‘what if’ rut.
You are intuitive.
You walk into a room and instantly get a feel for it, you know how people are feeling. It is useful when the energy is positive, but when it’s negative, watch out.
You are often tired and overwhelmed.
Because you deal with emotions of yours and others, as well as stimulation every day, you quickly become overwhelmed by it all and feel as though you need to sleep more.
What can you do?
Living life as an HSP is not easy, but there are some things you can do:
See your sensitivity as positive, not a negative.
Remind yourself there is nothing wrong with you, and you are not alone.
Avoid negative people, places and situations.
Set boundaries with people who take advantage of your compassion.
Learn to relax through exercise and meditation.
Give yourself the same sympathy and kindness as you do others.
If at any time you find yourself feeling depressed or anxious because of your sensitivity, you must seek the guidance of a therapist who can help you manage your emotions.
If you feel your sensitivity is affecting your relationship, please do not hesitate to contact me. I would be happy to speak with you about how I may be able to help.
