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The Highly Sensitive Person

A deeper understanding of sensitivity, overwhelm and the strengths of a highly sensitive nervous system.

Pale yellow coastal flowers in sunlight

What is a Highly Sensitive Person?

Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), or sensory-processing sensitivity (SPS), is a personality trait identified by psychologist Dr Elaine Aron. Around 15 to 20% of people are thought to have this trait.

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People with high sensitivity often experience the world more deeply, responding more strongly to both internal and external experiences such as emotion, noise, light, pain and change. They also tend to have rich inner lives and heightened awareness.

What does being highly sensitive mean?

While highly sensitive people may become overwhelmed more easily, they also often possess qualities such as:

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  • Deep empathy

  • Strong intuition

  • Creativity

  • Thoughtful decision-making

  • Meaningful relationships

  • A greater appreciation for beauty and nature

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Like any personality trait, high sensitivity brings both challenges and strengths.

Am I a highly sensitive person?

If you find yourself deeply affected by criticism, easily overwhelmed by busy environments or strong emotions, and often notice subtleties that others miss, you may identify with this trait.

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Many highly sensitive people also describe having a rich inner world and a strong capacity for empathy.

Is high sensitivity a disorder?

No.

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High sensitivity is not considered a mental health disorder. It is a naturally occurring personality trait that varies from person to person.

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However, because highly sensitive people may experience greater emotional intensity, they can also be more vulnerable to stress, anxiety or depression during difficult periods of life.

Can therapy help?

There is no treatment for high sensitivity because it is not something that needs to be cured.

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However, therapy can provide valuable support in helping highly sensitive people understand themselves, manage overwhelm, strengthen boundaries and develop ways of working with their sensitivity rather than against it.

Caring for yourself as a highly sensitive person

Looking after your nervous system is especially important.

 

Helpful strategies include:

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  • Prioritising good sleep

  • Eating nourishing meals

  • Limiting caffeine and alcohol where helpful

  • Allowing regular quiet time to recharge

  • Learning healthy ways to manage stress

  • Seeking therapeutic support when needed

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