Are you a HSP? If so, it’s actually a Superpower
Are you a HSP? If so, it’s actually a Superpower
HSP or “highly sensitive person” is a population that I have felt drawn to working with, as in my own work with clients, it has become clear that many highly sensitive people seek out and benefit from therapy. It is estimated that 15-20 percent of the general population falls into this category. What does it mean, exactly, to be 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” (to learn more about HSP, check out this Psychology Today article) To be clear, being an HSP is a personality trait- not a disorder. Although being highly sensitive is sometimes frowned upon and terms like “shy” “anxious” “overly sensitive” are used to describe HSP, there are many upsides too! As a HSP myself, I honestly consider it a superpower. Here are four upsides of being highly sensitive…
1. Simply appreciating the small things in life: HSP’s are often easily moved by natural beauty, a vivid childhood memory or are struck with feelings of nostalgia when an old song comes on. Things that may seem insignificant or meaningless to others can really have a profound impact on those who are highly sensitive. And often, it turns out the small things are actually the big things in life.
2. Highly self-aware: Highly sensitive people are especially tuned into what is going on in their inner world. Many HSP’s have done a lot of deep personal work because going “deep” comes so naturally. HSP’s have often spent time in therapy throughout life, processing experiences from childhood and beyond. Those who are highly sensitive often have a rich inner world and think critically about who they are and how they relate to others and the world.
3. Ability to connect with others deeply: HSPs often have a sense of empathy, intuition and the ability to connect with others on a deeper level. Those who are highly sensitive don’t typically spend much time making small talk and enjoy diving deeper in conversations. HSPs are tuned into and often remember minor details that others share with them, that may typically be glossed over. They are often inquisitive and care about REALLY getting to know other people. This lends itself to building strong and long lasting relationships throughout life.
4. Self-care gurus: As daily tasks and experiences can be more overwhelming for HSP, time to recharge, regroup and relax is imperative. This is one reason so many highly sensitive people do seek out therapy (its estimated that approximately 50% of people in therapy are HSP!), and find “self-care” such as meditation, acupuncture, journaling, breathing exercises, spending time in nature and taking breaks from people and places that feel stressful etc., necessary to incorporate into daily life. Two personal favorite self-care items are weighted blankets and acupressure mats, both widely available for reasonable prices on amazon. HSP’s have often learned and spent time practicing what they need to feel emotionally regulated, which is crucial for both mental and physical health!
While HSPs have needs that the general population may not, there are many wonderful aspects of having this trait. I love working with and connecting with those who are highly sensitive, or those who want to better understand partners/loved ones who may be HSPs. Feel free to reach out to see if working together is a good fit!