Can you relate to this situation? Imagine you step outside for your regular visit to the supermarket. As soon as you open the door, the sound of traffic hits you like a wave. It feels overwhelming, but thankfully, you have your AirPods in.
You tune out the noise and continue on your way. Once you enter the supermarket, the store radio blares at what feels like maximum volume. Nearby, a baby in line number 3 cries incessantly, and it feels as if that noise is coming from your own shopping cart.
Consider another scenario. You walk into a bustling room filled with strangers. In that moment, you instantly spot the woman in red, and her distress is palpable. You notice the man in the suit fidgeting nervously, his discomfort evident.
If you find yourself connecting with these experiences, you may be a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP). This means you are exceptionally aware of not just your surroundings—like sounds and lights—but also the emotions of others.
If you are curious about how to identify whether you are highly sensitive, continue reading to uncover ways to approach life more peacefully.
The concept of hypersensitivity has a rich history. Highly sensitive people have a unique ability to notice everything around them. This includes not only physical sensations like sights and sounds, but also the emotional states of people and the overall vibe of the spaces they enter. In essence, their senses are finely tuned to detect subtleties that others might miss.
The term "highly sensitive person" was coined by psychotherapist Elaine Aron in 1996. Aron, who identifies as highly sensitive herself, published the book "The Highly Sensitive Person."
In this influential work, she combined her professional insights with personal experiences. The book serves as a valuable resource for those who are highly sensitive, as well as for friends and family of HSPs. Many readers found themselves reflected in her descriptions, gaining a sense of understanding and validation.
The book offers practical advice on coping with high sensitivity, overcoming feelings of insecurity, and establishing a better social balance.
It played a crucial role in raising awareness about highly sensitive individuals, marking the point where hypersensitivity became a recognized concept. If you believe you may be highly sensitive but are unsure, there are ways to explore this further.