Hypersensitive people are usually perceived as overly emotional or highly dramatic. But what most people don’t know is that hypersensitive people are deeply connected to their feelings. Their awareness of the feelings of others tends to be deeper, and their capacity for empathy is bigger. Understanding how hypersensitive people feel can help you communicate with them. Here are a few things to keep in mind about this personality.
1. They Deeply Process Information
Highly sensitive individuals usually stay quiet during conversations. Oftentimes, this can come off like they don’t care, but it is because they are trying to process their own thoughts. This allows them to share better insights about whatever you are talking about. They will also typically consider their words for a long time before they speak. Again, this is because they are taking their time to process information and respond to social cues.
2. They Are Empathetic
Empathy is one of the main indicators that a person is highly sensitive. Their ability to understand and share the feelings of another is exceptional. Their empathy can make them better understand social dynamics and unspoken cues. This allows them to build deeper and more meaningful connections with others. While empathy is a strength, there need to be boundaries set to protect them from emotional exhaustion.
3. They Have Sensory Sensitivity
Sensory overload is a common problem for hypersensitive individuals. This can happen when they are exposed to too much sensory input, like bright lights, loud noises, or strong smells, causing them stress or discomfort. They might cry easily in reaction to a heartwarming moment, or become overwhelmed by too much information. HSPs can also be overly generous or, contrastly, excessively cautious. All in all, a calm environment is best when you are interacting with a hypersensitive person.
4. They Are Not Weak
Many people are quick to assume HSPs are weak, especially in a society that values resilience and assertiveness. Actually, high sensitivity can be a strength. They are often creative thinkers and are able to appreciate beauty much more than the average human being. Additionally, they are fully capable of handling stress, they just have a unique way of dealing with it. Being different doesn’t mean that they aren’t strong.
5. They Are Normal
It’s easy to assume that because highly sensitive people do not behave like most people do, there’s something wrong with them. There should not be a stigma attached to perceptive people who empathize genuinely. Authors of the book Sensitive (Harmony Books, 2023), Jenn Granneman and Andre Solo, suggested responding with pride if someone points out that you are raising a sensitive child. It is a quality to be nurtured.
6. They Need Solitude
Highly sensitive people need solitude. Continuous exposure to overwhelming stimuli can make them feel depleted. They might even lose their appetite for engaging with others entirely. That’s why they must have regular peace, solitude, and opportunities for rejuvenation. To help them maintain their emotional well-being, they need quiet, peaceful environments to let them recharge and process their thoughts and feelings.
7. They Are Creative
Hypersensitive people are highly creative. They see the world in many different ways. Providing them with an outlet to express their creativity is very crucial for them. There are different ways to support them in this area, like giving them a calm and clutter-free space to explore their creativity. It is also good to validate their feelings and emotions to boost their self-confidence.
Celebrating Highly Sensible People
Highly sensitive people give us a unique perspective of the world. They usually see things that others may not. Their heightened sensitivity is a double-edged sword, leading to challenges and extraordinary strengths. Understanding why they interact with others and live their lives the way they do can lead to a more compassionate world.