What is a Highly Sensitive Person?

Dr. Elaine Aron coined the term Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) in her book The Highly Sensitive Person: How to Thrive When the World Overwhelms You. In it, she describes a personality trait, not a psychological problem, in which about 20 percent of the population are more sensitive to their environment than others.

To see some HSP characteristics, take a look at Dr. Aron's checklist.

HSP's tend to be very empathic to the needs and feelings of others but can get overwhelmed easily.

Dr. Aron claims that there are four aspects to being a highly sensitive individual. She uses the acronym D.O.E.S: Depth of processing, being easily Overstimulated, being both Emotionally reactive and having high Empathy, and being more aware of Subtle Stimuli. Let’s get into each of these characteristics a little more. Not all HSP’s will have all of these traits but they will probably look familiar to you if you are an HSP.

D-DEPTH OF PROCESSING

This has to do with feeling everything that is in the environment. HSP’s tend to process thoughts, feelings, smells, ideas, etc., on a deep level. They tend to take their time trying something new because they are really taking it all in. They don’t make decisions lightly, again, taking in all the options and thoroughly processing it.

O-Easily Overstimulated

When you take in many details from your external environment, you’re bound to get overwhelmed. Loud noises, bright lights, sometimes smells and being around a lot of people in a crowded place can feel very uncomfortable. Stress can effect an HSP more intensely and may be harder for them to bounce back after a tough day. They may find themselves feeling burned out more frequently.

E-EMOTIONAL REACTIVITY AND EMPATHY

HSP’s tend to react more to both positive and negative experiences.

With a partner or child they may be able to feel a significant deep and powerful love. However, they also may be easily upset by injustices of the world, inequality, and other social issues that most people don’t think about daily. Criticism can feel especially painful and difficult to "just let go."

E is also for Empathy. Due to the brain structure of people born highly sensitive, they are more likely to feel significant empathy for people and animals. Sometimes they can truly feel what others are feeling. Again, this can get overwhelming and cause distress and the need to recharge.

S-SUBTLE STIMULI

HSP’s tend to notice all the little things in the environment around them. For example, they may notice right away someone's new haircut, if furniture has been moved, smells can sometimes be bothersome if they are strong, and unconformable clothing can effect HSP's more intensely.

Like most people, highly sensitive people have many wonderful traits that they can use to their advantage. However, there are some challenges that go along with being a highly sensitive person.

Some of these traits could also be indications of other issues such as anxiety, depression, and sensory processing challenges. A therapist who has extensive experience in this area can help you identify the differences between high sensitivity and a mental health issue. An experienced therapist can also assist you in identifying the ways you can structure your life so that you can take advantage of being an HSP while at the same time be aware of potential challenges.

I hope this article has helped explain about being a highly sensitive person. Please keep in mind this article is not intended as professional therapy or clinical advice. If you need help with a mental health issue you are facing, please contact a licensed mental health clinician.

I wish you well.

-Dr. Zaleski

Dr. Katrina Zaleski is a licensed clinical psychologist providing therapy in the state of California. One of her specialties is working with those looking for support who are highly sensitive. Learn more about Dr. Zaleski’s services for Highly Sensitive People.