Usually, when you get called “highly sensitive,” it’s not a compliment. The implication is that you take things too seriously and have a low tolerance for interactions that most people view as “normal.” While there are tidbits of truth in this perception, the clinical reality can be quite different. Being a highly sensitive person (HSP) is not a diagnosis or a disorder, but it’s a confirmed label for those who process sensory input in a particular way.
If you have an immediate, heightened reaction to certain sounds, textures, temperatures, light, etc., you may be an HSP. Since it’s very helpful to know where you land on this spectrum, let’s take a closer look.
5 Signs That You May Be a Highly Sensitive Person
1. A Preference For Small Groups and Solitude
About 70 percent of HSPs are introverts. Thus, it’s no surprise that they crave solo time. When with friends, they like small gatherings, meaningful conversations, and deep connections.
2. Clear Sensory-Processing Preferences
A hallmark sign for an HSP is that they avoid high sensory situations that involve:
- Loud noises
- Scratchy or itchy clothes
- Food with certain textures
- Strong smells and odors
- Bright or flashing lights
- Intense content movies or other content
- Big crowds
3. Need Lots of Downtime
An HSP doesn’t just hide at home in the dark. They enjoy having fun, but understand that such activities require them to balance things out with plenty of downtime.
4. Detail-Oriented
If you want help with a plan, an HSP is the ideal choice. They process details and rarely rush into making decisions.
5. Deep Emotions
HSPs feel everything more deeply than others. This allows them to savor experiences but also, it can lead to bouts of rumination and self-doubt.
Even So, It’s Not This Simple
- HSPs make wise leaders because they can factor in a wide range of considerations without feeling rushed to make decisions.
- They feel deep empathy and with that comes compassion and understanding.
- HSPs benefit from rich inner lives and the ability to appreciate all the beauty and diversity around them.
Help or Self-Help for Highly Sensitive People
- Not judging them
- Remaining patient because the outcome is most often worth it
- Giving them room to be who they are
- Adapting your sensory output when you’re around them
- Encouraging them to commit to self-care (see below)
By paying close attention, you can benefit yourself by learning from their intuitive behaviors. And if their preferences are not clear to you, ask them for clarification. Let them know you want to help.
