Have you ever had people say “you’re so sensitive” or wonder why others’ emotions impact you so deeply? Me too! I am a proud HSP – Highly Sensitive Person – and specialize in working with fellow HSPs, particularly parents and those going through life transitions.
A Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) is someone whose brain and body tends towards sensitivity to the environment and to emotions. HSP is not a diagnosis or a flaw, but rather a trait that describes about 15-20% of the population. Think of the HSP trait as a trait like height – it is not “good” or “bad,” but definitely impacts the way you experience the world around you, and may have both benefits and drawbacks depending on the situation.
I actually see HSP as a form of Neurodivergence or Neurodiversity, and it can certainly overlap with Autism and ADHD (more on that in the future!) The HSP trait also overlaps with (but is different from) both Introversion and being an Empath.
One of the best ways to understand the HSP trait is through the acronym DOESSS, which was created by HSP researcher Elaine Aron, PhD:
Depth of Processing - a powerful desire to search for insight and the ability to process information deeply – not just “more emotional.” People who process deeply may be seen as deep thinkers, which can lead to leading an examined life and making wise decisions, but also can lead to decision fatigue and paralysis during times of anxiety.
Overstimulated Easily - Nervous system overarousal due to intensity/frequency/presence of sensory inputs. This can be exacerbated in the perinatal period.
Emotional Reactivity– HSPs are very tuned into their emotional selves, and can therefore experience more complexity and intensity in their emotions.
Sensitivity to Positive Experiences - HSPs experience positive emotions, such as awe, connections, joy, and contentment, to a great degree when having a positive experience.
Social Sensitivity – Feeling the experiences and emotions of others deeply and absorbing them. Empathy can be a gift but also is overwhelming for many HSPs.
Sensitivity to Details - HSPs notice subtle changes in their environments, often noticing and processing sensory information that others may gloss over. For example, an HSP might notice when a tree has been trimmed or when one lightbulb is slightly brighter than others.
If you’re not sure about whether or not the HSP trait defines your experience, check out the questionnaires at https://hsperson.com/test/highly-sensitive-test/. Keep in mind that you don’t need to have *all* of the traits of High Sensitivity to consider yourself an HSP!
If it feels true for you, congratulations! You have learned something new about yourself, and this knowledge can help empower you to celebrate the strengths of your sensitivity, as well as make adjustments to your life to better accommodate the challenges that sensitivity can sometimes bring.
If you’re looking for a therapist in California who specializes in working with Highly Sensitive People & Parents, I can help! Find me at https://www.innernaturetherapy.com/