The Venn diagram of people who still get teary-eyed over the Sarah McLachlan dog commercial and people who get sensory overload shopping at Costco is actually a circle, and that circle represents a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP).
HSPs process information—emotions, thoughts, sensations—more deeply than people who don’t possess the personality trait. That means they react more intensely to things, be it a color that feels too “loud” or the emotions of the people around them.
The term was coined by psychotherapist Elaine Aron, PhD, and an estimated 15 to 20 percent of the population—including several members of Team Poosh—have this personality trait.
Haven’t heard of it? You’re not alone.
Contrary to how it may sound at first, it’s about more than emotional sensitivity (though that does typically come with the package). Responses can also be physical, mental, or some combo of all three. And they can be overwhelming.
In other words, every little thing feels like a lot all the time.
Today we’re diving into what it means to be an HSP and how it can be a superpower.
The Characteristics of a Highly Sensitive Person
HSPs are often negatively described as “too emotional,” but that’s not accurate. Being highly sensitive is a normal, healthy trait that has pros and cons, just like any other.
Dr. Aron uses the acronym DOES to describe the main characteristics of HSP.
D: Depth of Processing
- They are intuitive, finding insights and meaning in things where others may not.
O: Overstimulation
- They’re easily overwhelmed in environments with lots of stimuli.
E: Emotional Reactivity and Empathy
- Their highs are higher, and their lows are lower. They often pick up and absorb the feelings of others around them.
S: Sensing the Subtle
- They’re very attuned to everything around them and notice things others may miss.
As an HSP, it can be tough to live on this stimulation-saturated planet (so self-care is crucial). HSPs have a tendency to overthink, view changes in routine as a calamity, feel overwhelmed, and have trouble saying no.
But there are also many benefits to being so attuned to everything. HSPs tend to have a vibrant inner world, and they are creative, empathetic, intuitive, and perceptive.
Ofc, this is all just a starting point. If you’re wondering if you’re an HSP you can take Dr. Aron’s self-test here.
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