What does it mean to be a HSP (Highly Sensitive Person)
Sensory Processing Sensitivity
Have you heard of Sensory Processing Sensitivity? Not to be confused with Sensory Processing Disorder.
It is the trait that Elaine Aron wrote about in her book “The Highly Sensitive Person” and it is what is now known as HSP, Highly Sensitive Person, High Sensory Person or person with High Sensory Intelligence. It is an innate trait thought to be found equally in both male and female identifying humans, as well as many species of animals, and initially believed to be in 15-20% of the population but more recently believed to be nearer 30%. 80% of HSPs are thought to be introverts (recharge their energy being alone) and 20% extroverts (recharge with other people).
HSPs have more activity in the amygdala, the part of the brain responsible for the fight/flight/freeze/fawn response. The alarm bell system. The trait evolved many years ago for the survival of the tribe and is as relevant today as it was when humans were being chased by predators. The difference now is that the harm is being caused by other humans rather than wild animals. HSPs are the first to feel the affects of changes in climate and environment, amongst other things. The proverbial canaries in the coal mine.
HSPs are especially good at sensing extra information like micro-expressions, body language and changes in energy. They can tell if someone is being genuine or not. All these things are important for survival. As HSPs are taking in much more information, it can take more time to process and generally HSPs need specific self-care routines to reduce the impact of the depth of processing and over-stimulation that can happen. In particular quiet self-reflection, grounding and centring is crucial. An over-stimulated nervous system is the main issue as without rigorous self-care this can lead to anxiety, stress, panic attacks and chronic conditions.
Sensitivity for HSPs is on a spectrum with the highest sensitivity being found in HSP empaths. With more activity in the insular part of the brain - the part responsible for conscious awareness - many HSPs are great leaders because of these gifts.
The trait is scientifically proven yet most people have never heard of it. I want to change that.
I have heard people say that Elaine Aron now wishes she had used a different word to “sensitive” as it often used in a less than flattering way. Far from being weak, sensitivity allows a greater depth or understanding, intuition, empathy and connection. It’s what we need in our leaders.
Too Sensitive
Some people know they are sensitive from when they are very young.
Many grow up being told they are “too sensitive” and to just get over it.
I was always asking questions and getting upset with what was going on at home and I was told to “Stop crying or I’ll give you something to cry about”. I soon learned to bury my feelings and put on a brave face.
Fast forward 40 or so years, and after 3 years of therapy, I was having a bit of an identity crisis wondering who I am now I’m no longer weighed down as heavily with my childhood trauma.
Highly Sensitive
After listening to Julie Bjelland guesting on a podcast I listened to regularly, I began to get interested in this “highly sensitive” thing. Everything Julie talked about made so much sense.
Reacting strongly to smells, bright lights, loud noises, violent films, scratchy fabrics.
Being able to read the mood in a room instantly.
Knowing what people need to make them more comfortable.
Getting tired easily around people.
Needing time alone to recharge.
Feeling and processing deeply.
Having a rich inner world.
I listened to lots of episodes of Julie’s podcast and came to the realisation that I am a HSP. It’s an innate trait, I was born with it, and whilst it perhaps makes trauma harder to bear, it is not a result of experiencing trauma.
HSP Gift
On Julie’s podcast, she had a guest called Willow McIntosh and he prefers to talk about this gift as High Sensory Intelligence beacuse he sees the innate intelligence in the trait.
Willow works with HSP coaches to help them uncover their HSP (or HSI) gift. I was fascinated. I had just finished a coaching qualification and started my fledgling business but I felt there was a piece missing.
I took Willow’s coaching programme and learned that I am indeed a HSP and I now see it as my superpower. Spending time in the company of other HSPs is really special and my weekly sessions are a joy. I have learned that my sensitivity enables a unique connection with my intuition which helps me support my clients in a special way.
It can be overwhelming sometimes, being a HSP, as we process so much sensory data because of our sensory awareness and sensitivity. Understanding, and advocating for, our needs and making sure they are met is key. Self-care is a must and as long as we take care of ourselves we can truly thrive.
Are you a HSP? If you’re not, I bet you have friends and family that are. Hopefully this little insight I have given you might help you understand HSPs more. The trait is here for a reason, it is not a mistake, and HSPs make the world a better place.
If you want some support getting to know and love yourself, to find more joy in life or to talk about being an HSP, book a call and we can chat over a coffee. Click the button below to contact me
