Ann always knew that she felt things deeper than most people.
It is always easy to embarrass, quickly crying and feeling shocked in full places. “As a child, I was called” very sensitive “, a” crybaby “and” fine “, Ann said. As a result, he often felt inadequate and” inappropriate amount of shame “.
Today, Ann, now 63 will be described as an extremely sensitive person (HSP), a term created in 1996 by the psychologist Elaine Aron, Ph.D., The writer of his bestselling The very sensitive person and dozens scientific studies in HSPs.
As evidenced by hundreds of research studies, HSPs – which make up up to 20% of the population – process things unique, especially when it comes to perception, emotions and empathy.
Officer Mary Kate Roohan, PsydWho specializes in working with very sensitive people, described an HSP as a person who takes the world – both positively and negatively – deeper. “It’s like having a brain that pays close attention to fine shades in their environment,” he said.
Characteristics of extremely sensitive people
THE Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5);They are used by clinics and researchers to diagnose mental disorders, do not classify HSP as a mental health disorder or condition. Instead, experts say they are extremely sensitive people High in a normal innate personality traitKnown as Aesthetic Editing Sensitivity (SPS).
Most people are sensitive to some extent, but HSPs are particularly sensitive. One of the many characteristics of an extremely sensitive person is that they are more affected by their environment, especially in childhood. Like Ann, they are often told that they could not criticize or have to grow thicker skin.
In addition to sensitivity to criticism and feedback, HSPs are easily affected by the activators in their natural environment. For example, bright lights and noises, television violence or clothing label that feels like sandpaper can be overwhelming for an HSP.
An HSP has to take their time-rush or multiple tasks can be particularly stressful. With an overdrive nervous system, highly sensitive people can feel overwhelmed and exhausted, they often need vacation to recharge. For example, they can leave a social environment early or have to complete a job in loneliness to gather better.
HSPs are also particularly sensitive to the provisions of others, often absorbing the mood of another person, who may be emotionally exhaustive. And while it may seem that all HSPs would be introverted, this is not the case: up to 3 in 10 are extroverted, according to Roohan. “This makes sense, as HSPs often appreciate connection and community,” he said.
Due to their deep sensitivity and the strongest tendency to process emotions and answers, a very sensitive person may be more prone to depression and anxiety, according to one 2023 study. Fortunately, with plenty of family and community support from an early age, Aron said HSPs can work extremely well. But without a good start, it’s easy to stress and find it difficult to deal with.
Facing being a very sensitive man
Being HSP can be a force, but it can also be difficult. In order to tackle high sensitivity, Aron proposes the reform of your past and focusing on the positive aspects of the feature. It is also important to understand what you need and give yourself grace. For example, take as much time as possible to make a decision and then resist the sense of guilt if you make a decision that does not work.
Try to declare your needs without embarrassment or hesitation. Roohan said: “I tell my clients that the majority of the population are not HSPs and people do not often understand them, if there is enough relationship in the relationship, there are ways to formulate someone you love because what they say is harmful.”
In addition to the clear communication of your needs, it is a good idea to try to spend time with other HSPs. According to Aron, this connection can help enhance that the feature is real and help you feel understandable and listening.
Support of an extremely sensitive person
By the way you support other friends or family, it may be useful to ask an HSP what they need and then try to host. For example, note that some things in the environment can really affect them, thus reduce the lights or reduce music if they feel over -stimulated. Also, understand that HSPs need a break and are not a reflection of how they feel about you.
The good news is that research shows that couples with one or more HSP partners get more than counseling and communication training – so it could be useful to participate if you need it.
Being a very sensitive person can be a force
Although HSP is associated with higher levels of stress, anxiety and depression and can interfere with daily activities, HSPs have unique neurological wiring that allows them to be more perceived and respond to their environment.
According to Aron, highly sensitive people are often very creative and have rich and complex inner lives. Studies, including one Study of magnetic resonance imaging This examined HSPs while seeing facial expressions, showing that HSPs have increased brain activity in areas related to empathy, action planning and awareness.
These unique features, including improved perception of processing and empathy, facilitate their connection to others. As a result, they often make great leaders.
The HSPs are also prosperous self -employed and are particularly capable so that they can achieve almost anything.
Reflecting back, Ann, a mother of three who spent part of her career as a teaching assistant, sees the distinctive advantages of HSP. “I certainly believe that being HSP made me a better mother and a better teacher. Being extremely patient and detailed allowed me to get through the kids’ heads and feel what they may feel.”
*The name has only been used for privacy.
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