Highly Sensitive Person Traits
Dr. John D. Moore
Do you identify as a person who feels a lot? Do you pick up on the emotions of others without even trying? When in the presence of large groups, can you easily identify different smells and scents on people, including cigarette smoke?
If any of this sounds familiar, you could very well be a highly sensitive person. But what does that term really mean? In a nutshell, being a highly sensitive person (HSP) means that you have the ability to sense the emotions of others because of a well-tuned nervous system. While we can’t be sure, there are some researchers who have suggested that up to 20% of the population can be classified as HSPs.
In my experience as a therapist in Chicago, highly sensitive people are often empathic. This means they are able to literally pick up on the emotions of others and possess an uncanny ability to anticipate things before they happen. If you have ever wondered if you are a HSP or empathic, be sure to take this self-assessment.
I’ve spent a good deal of my professional life studying the traits and characteristics of women and men who are highly sensitive The term itself gets a bum rap because it conjures up mental imagery of someone who can’t take feedback or criticism. That’s really hogwash. In truth, HSP are extremely resilient when it comes to their own shortcomings. Their problem, however, centers more on picking up on the hurts and wounds of others in a very internal way.
Below you will find 10 common characteristics of highly sensitive people. If you recognize these signs in yourself, there’s a good chance you “fit the bill” for being classified as a HSP. While there are no hard and fast rules with this, if three or more of these traits jump out at you, consider it confirmation of a deeper truth about who you are.
Let’s jump right in!
1. You have hyper-awareness
HPS’s generally are aware of pretty much everything going on in their environment. They have a keen sense of smell and are able to detect even the smallest changes with individuals. For example, did a friend get a new haircut or do something different with their makeup? If you are a HSP, you will pick up on these things immediately.
2. You are influenced by the mood of other people
Most people have fairly stable moods but if you are a HSP, you will commonly reflect the mood state of another individual. For example, if a family member is happy, you will feel happy. If a friend is feeling sad, you will commonly take on similar feelings. Great if you are around super positive people but if you dealing with toxic situations, it can suck big time.
3. You feel overwhelmed easily
People who identify as HSP’s become overwhelmed easily because like a vacuum, they pick up on the emotional residue of others. In chaotic situations or in a crisis, HSP’s struggle to function become their “chip” becomes overloaded with feelings. As a result, these same individuals need to find a quiet space to collect their thoughts and chillax. This is why so many HSP’s are often introverted. It is part of their DNA.
5. You attract people in crisis
One of the cruel ironies of being a HSP is that that they attract people who are in emotional crisis towards their direction. The reasons are many, including having a kind and loving heart, coupled with an ability to heal others through the gift of compassionate listening. The problem of course of HSP’s is that they tend to take on too much, which emotionally burns them out quickly. Counselors, nurses, social workers and therapists often are HPS’s. But that makes sense, doesn’t it?
6. Your aren’t a fan of violence on TV or movies
Most people who are highly sensitive avoid watching television shows or movies that contain extreme violence. Super HSP won’t even watch shows that have a little violence. They are just too upsetting and the mental imagery generated from such experiences can become overwhelming.
7. You feel manners matter
Under this point, HSP take note of how others interact. Because you tend to be polite and considerate to a point, you are able to easily detect rudeness when you see it. For example, because you commonly say things like “Please” and “Thank you” to others, you take not of individuals who do not. And so gratitude is a big part of being a HSP.
8. Animals are attracted to you
Do cats and dogs gravitate towards you for no apparent reason? Has this been the case ever since you were a small child? Are you the type of person who will take in animals who are lost or injured? Well, if you are saying yes to this trait, consider it a strong sign you are a HSP. You see animals have the almost supernatural ability to detect people who will be nurturing and loving to them. Is this you?
9. You struggle with decision making
Most people who are highly sensitive are logical but none the less tend to think with their emotions. As a result, it can sometimes be a struggle to make decisions. In fact, being in a state of indecisiveness is usually the norm for HSP’s – and it can be quite frustrating.
10. You gravitate towards nature
Folks who are HSP’s often are attracted to nature, particularly oceans and lakes. There’s something restorative and healing about being around natural elements that can’t be described. As an aside, many HSP’s like listening to the sounds of nature, such as birds, waterfalls and so forth and can do so for hours.
Final Thoughts
If you found yourself relating to the material in this post, I encourage you to pick up a copy of the book, The Highly Sensitive Person by Dr. Elaine Aron. What’s great about this read is that it helps to normalize much of what you may be feeling.
The other benefit of this book is how the author helps readers better negotiate important life situations, such as personal relationships, workplace dynamics and family matters. It’s kind of a must read if you identify as a HSP!
Finally, one of the best things highly sensitive people can do is to work with a helping professional, such as a therapist. Doing so allows you to cathartically discharge some of what you have been holding in a safe, affirming and non-judgmental environment.