Highly Sensitive Persons (HSPs)

It’s weird that I am 38 and I am still learning things about myself.  You’d think with all the self-reflection and therapy that I would already be an expert on myself by now, but that doesn’t seem to be the case.

Highly Sensitive Persons (HSPs)

Recently I heard about a term called HSP – or Highly Sensitive Person.  You’ve probably already heard of it, but this was new news to me.  I read a fascinating book called Sensitive: The Hidden Power of the Highly Sensitive Person in a Loud, Fast, Too-Much World, by Jenn Granneman and Andre Sólo.  I recognized myself in almost everything the book was talking about, so I then googled HSPs and took a test by the person who coined the term HSP.

Reaction:

I was shocked.  

I mean, I knew I was sensitive (and anyone else who knows me will probably nod their head emphatically).  I knew that I was an introvert as well as an empath.  Apparently, I am also a Highly Sensitive Person, because not only did I answer at least 14 of the questions on the test affirmatively, I answered a whopping 26 out of 27 test questions affirmatively!

So, what is an HSP you might ask?

According to Psychology Today and Verywell Mind, HSPs are people who are easily overwhelmed by too much stimuli, who don’t take criticism well, and who appreciate beauty (in even the mundane, but especially the fine arts). HSPs startle easily, complain of noises being too loud and lights too bright, are easily stressed by too many responsibilities and a hectic schedule, and are more disturbed by scenes of violence, pain, and distress. They tend to be introverts and are often told to “Stop being so sensitive!”

Guilty as charged on all accounts.

How to Cope

Jessica Migala, writing for Health magazine, says that there are coping strategies for those of us who are highly sensitive.  Taking breaks of alone time, spending time in nature, setting boundaries, saying no, and showing yourself self-compassion are all really important for the HSP.  I think I would also add that avoiding books, tv, and movies that present a lot of violence, pain, and distress is another good coping mechanism.  And consciously accept the fact that you are different from a lot of people and that is ok – it is not automatically negative.  

What Does This Mean?

HSPs tend to be very compassionate and creative people, and we help enrich the world around us.  The downside is that being highly sensitive often makes us more anxious, depressive people.  I have to confess that I am worried that if my depression is arising mostly from an innate personality trait, then I have even less control over my feelings and perspective on life as I thought.  I suppose, like anything else in the mental health world, awareness is the first step! I can be an HSP and also a mentally healthy individual, and I'll cling to that truth for now.