Understanding the Traits of a Highly Sensitive Person
Highly Sensitive Person, or HSP, is a term coined by psychologist Elaine Aron. According to Aron’s theory, HSPs are a subset of the population who are high in a personality trait known as sensory-processing sensitivity, or SPS. Those with high levels of SPS display increased emotional sensitivity, stronger reactivity to both external and internal stimuli—pain, hunger, light, and noise—and a complex inner life. Being a highly sensitive person (HSP) can feel overwhelming and confusing at times, but it can also be an incredible gift. By understanding what it means to be a HSP, you can discover how to use your sensitivity as an asset and have strategies for managing the challenges it presents.
Increased sensitivity to external stimuli.
Highly Sensitive People (HSPs) process external stimuli like noise, light and smells with more intensity than most people. As a result, HSPs tend to be easily overstimulated and can become overwhelmed in overwhelming or chaotic environments. To manage this heightened sensitivity, HSPs often need to create calm, peaceful spaces for themselves. Noise-cancelling headphones, scented candles and diffusers, blackout curtains and calming hobbies like yoga or reading can all help an HSP stay focused and relaxed in difficult situations.
Easily overwhelmed by environments with intense stimuli.
Highly Sensitive People are more easily overwhelmed by chaotic situations and environments with intense stimuli. They tend to avoid crowds and can become uncomfortable in certain situations. HSPs also have a heightened perceptiveness which can make them acutely aware of the social atmosphere and emotions of those around them. These traits can often make it difficult for HSPs to stay calm when they’re feeling overwhelmed, so it’s important that they take time to practice calming techniques and create a safe space for themselves if needed.
Overwhelmingly delicate emotional experiences and reflection patterns.
Highly Sensitive People often experience complex emotional responses that are difficult to control and manage. They also tend to reflect deeply on their emotions and experiences which can be both a gift and a challenge. Highly Sensitive People are often creative thinkers as they explore and analyze the world around them in unique ways. While this deep reflection can provide great insights, it can make HSPs prone to overthinking which may manifest in anxiety or distress if left unmanaged.
Attunement with the emotions of others and strong empathy.
Highly Sensitive People tend to be very attuned to the emotions of others, often perceiving and understanding the emotions in complex ways. This sensitivity can make them highly empathetic, enabling them to provide great emotional support for people in need. They are also typically calm and patient listeners, preferring deeper conversations rather than surface level small talk.
Deepened long-term memories, flights of imagination, and artistic appreciation.
Highly Sensitive People often have the ability to form long-term memories with great detail, thanks to their strong mental focus. Additionally, these people are usually blessed with a vivid imagination and artistic appreciation – allowing them to come up with original ideas and truly appreciate good art. Lastly, this type of sensitivity makes it easier for them to connect emotionally with others, increasing their chances of building deeper relationships.
How to cope with high sensitivity
In our professional opinion, people becoming aware of high sensitivity are becoming more and more aware of their inner world and the finer energies of soul, spirit and etheric matter. It is therefore not primarily the HSP-label that counts: it is the increasing awareness that offers great opportunities for development and personal growth. Knowledge of these growth processes can oftentimes better be found in holistic and anthroposophic circles than in traditional behavioral psychology and regular medicine. Energetic therapies, mindfulness and meditation practices can be great assets in developing a sensitive, yet powerful life.