15 Signs You Might Be an HSP
Updated: Aug 24, 2022
HSP is one of the new buzzwords in the psychology and energy work fields. But, what does it mean? In short, A highly sensitive person (HSP) is someone who is thought to have an increased or deeper central nervous system sensitivity to physical, emotional, or social stimuli. (1)
Basically, an HSP is someone who is more perceptive to their environment and senses things that are not always obvious to others. HSPs are often introverted and keep to themselves.
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Why does this matter to you?
Well, if you identify with any of the characteristics listed below, you may be an HSP. It’s important to know because HSPs need to care for themselves differently than others. There’s nothing wrong with us, but we need different care than those who are not as sensitive.
You’re in good company
In fact, many famous people were/are HSPs. Albert Einstein, Nicole Kidman…Greta Garbo, Katharine Hepburn, Spencer Tracy, Judy Garland and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr are some famous personalities known as highly sensitive people (HSP). What do many of these people have in common? They were/are very creative and talented. (2)
Do any of these sound like you?
You can tell when it’s a full moon! AAAOOOW lol Just kidding...about the howling!
Geological events such as earthquakes (can be far away) or eclipses have a physical, emotional or mental effect on you (If you’ve never noticed, pay attention when there’s an eclipse or supermoon).
Violent and extremely sad movies are uncomfortable for you.
Nature is a refuge and a great place for you to recharge.
You may enjoy others, but time alone is also very soothing for you. I’m extremely outgoing and social for about 2 hours. After that, leave me alone for a week! Okay, maybe a day. Definitely, don’t invite me out the next day!
You need time alone to recharge after being in big crowds or high sensory events (ie. outdoor concerts etc.) See my previous comment!
Funerals, hospitals and places where people are suffering are very uncomfortable for you.
You may not have a lot of friends, but the ones you have are very close, loyal friends (and probably HSPs!) Share this article with them!
You love animals and they seem to love you, too! This is not me, so much.
You get the sense that there may be something non-physical hanging around sometimes.
You may have thought you had social anxiety or felt shy when you were younger This one doesn’t apply to me at all! You might find a few things on this list that don’t resonate with you.
You tend to find one person to talk with at a party instead of talking to many people at once This is more comfortable for me. When I used to "work the crowd" at networking events, I'd be drained afterward.
You have a low pain threshold or you can withstand a lot of pain BUT it makes you very drained afterward
You have a hard time finding foods or clothing that you like. My life story!
You are extremely sensitive to/aware of changes in your body, emotions, mind or environment. Me again!
If you identified with 6 or more of the traits above, chances are that you are an HSP. If not, don't worry - you're still welcome here! LOL
Know that your abilities are important and sensitivity is a gift, not a weakness, as our culture suggests.
What’s not well understood is that there are all types of strength. Our culture celebrates the men and women who run into burning buildings and save lives in ambulances-as they should! The same fanfare should be given to the healers, counselors and wise teachers who help these same heroes heal to fight another day!
Know that your strength is in your sensitivity, your ability to connect with and help others. We all have our different purposes and variety makes a beautiful whole.
What characteristic did you identify with most? Comment below!
P.S. Did you pick up my free Clarity meditation yet? Go deep to discover your potential!
Physical, mental and emotional unease can be a sign of illness. Please consult your physician, if needed. My services and articles are meant to complement, not replace licensed medical support.
References:
Boterberg S, Warreyn P. Making Sense of It All: The Impact of Sensory Processing Sensitivity on Daily Functioning of Children. Personality and Individual Differences. 2016;92(2):80-86. doi:10.1016/j.paid.2015.12.022
Hattangadi, Vidya, Why Highly Sensitive People Are a Boon to Humanity. Financial Express. 28 October 2019. https://www.financialexpress.com/opinion/why-highly-sensitive-people-are-a-boon-to-humanity/1747378/
Orloff, Judith, M.D., (2017) The Empath's Survival Guide: Life Strategies for Sensitive People. Boulder, CO: Sounds True