What is an HSP (Highly Sensitive Person)?
Multiple times growing up I heard, “you’re hypersensitive, just let it roll off your back”. Along with “don’t be a baby”, and “you worry too much.”
I thought something must be wrong with me.
It wouldn’t be until years later I would discover I am a Highly Sensitive Person.
Eureka!
It explained my whole life. What a relief. I wasn’t crazy after all.
Wondering if you’re one too?
A highly sensitive person (HSP) is not weepy, whiney, or weak.
We are just that, highly sensitive. We get the joy of experiencing life at a deeper level than most.
This also means everything else is felt at a deeper level; hence the appearance of being “overly sensitive” to those who misunderstand.
High sensitivity, or Sensory-Processing Sensitivity, was first discovered by researcher Elaine Aron in the early 90s.
It is estimated 15-20% of the population has the trait of high sensitivity. This means if 200 people are in your workplace, church, school, etc. up to 40 could be HSPs.
It is a genetic condition in which we have more receptors in our nervous system.
We therefore take in much more stimulus from our environment than the average person and are more vulnerable to overwhelm.
On her website www.hsperson.com, Elaine asks the following questions. See if you resonate.
Are you easily overwhelmed by such things as bright lights, strong smells, coarse fabrics, or sirens nearby?
Do you get rattled when you have a lot to do in a short amount of time?
Do you make a point of avoiding violent movies and TV shows?
Do you need to withdraw during busy days, into bed or a darkened room or some other place
where you can have privacy and relief from the situation?
Do you make it a high priority to arrange your life to avoid upsetting or overwhelming situations?
Do you notice or enjoy delicate or fine scents, tastes, sounds, or works of art?
Do you have a rich and complex inner life?
When you were a child, did your parents or teachers see you as sensitive or shy?
We also tend to be empaths, feeling others’ emotions without a word spoken – something
that can also overwhelm.
With all this input, self-care is a must. Things I like to implement are:
Healthy Boundaries
This is important for everyone. Healthy boundaries not only benefit us, but those around us.
Being sensitive, boundaries may look like limiting our time at social engagements, avoiding unhealthy people, and taking the time to walk in nature, take a nap, or a gentle stroll through an art gallery. Whatever feeds your soul.
Whatever we feel would bring calm to our heart and mind.
Exercise
HSPs are deep and slow processors. Moving my body while pondering deep thoughts or checking out with a good audio book give my body and mind the rest and release I crave.
As my arms and legs swing freely, I’m able to cast out any unwanted thoughts and feelings and therefore stress.
Not to mention the wonderful endorphin boost!
Talk About It
I have shared my sensitivity with my husband, young adult children, and a few close friends – only those who love and respect me enough to honor my unique trait.
Talking with a counselor who is familiar with HSPs is also helpful. Feeling misunderstood and “different” for so many years, it’s refreshing to process deep emotions with a compassionate and knowledgeable professional.
Healthy Diet
Did I have to go there? Just like a healthy diet promotes physical health, it also promotes mental health.
Have you ever noticed feeling much more calm and able to cope when you’ve been eating well verses not?
Our brains need all the healthy stuff – plenty of water, quality protein (especially to stave off low blood sugar), healthy fats and good nutrition in general.
Good News
As Elaine points out on her website, “Your trait is normal”. No longer do we have to feel something is wrong with us.
In her article for Psychology Today, author Jenn Granneman believes the term “responsive” describes the sensitive person more accurately and positively.
God designed each of us intentionally and uniquely and I want to embrace how He’s made me.
While being an HSP has its challenges, I’m getting great support and encouragement from the various resources listed below.
To find more, simply search online for a variety of websites, books, IG accounts, workshops, etc.
https://sensitiveandstrong.com/
https://www.amazon.com/Highly-Sensitive-Person-Thrive-Overwhelms/dp/0553062182
