The term “highly sensitive person” is a term we have been hearing a lot recently. What does it mean exactly? It’s referring to the fact that some individuals seem to pick up on other people’s emotions more easily. These individuals pick up on more subtle things going on around them, picking up more information. These individuals are also more sensitive to stimulus of the senses such as sounds or smells. This larger amount of information coming at someone can be a lot and may at times feel overwhelming.
Anxiety and Depression in individuals who are Highly Sensitive
Highly Sensitive Person is a term that has been popularized but is not a mental health diagnosis. In fact about 15-20% of the population is considered to be highly sensitive. So if you at times feel overwhelmed and alone in this, know that you are not alone! Being highly sensitive can occur along side certain mental health diagnosis such as anxiety or depression and they can feed off of each other but they are separate.
Being Highly Sensitive is a Superpower
Often times when clients identify as being a highly sensitive person they view as a negative. I don’t agree. I think with every superpower comes some form of kryptonite and I view being more sensitive as a true super power. And as Spiderman’s uncle tells him “with great power comes great responsibility”.
Positives of being highly sensitive is that you probably have high empathy for those around you. You make a good friend and a good family member. You care deeply for others. Others can easily feel understood by you.
Boundaries are important
The problems start to come when we don’t put boundaries around this. For example if I see someone pan handling and I feel so much empathy for them that it brings my afternoon down. So how can we start to put boundaries on our caring? How can we use it where it matters most and let go of the rest?
A helpful question you can ask is “does this help them?” Does me thinking about a pan handler all day help them? If the answer is no, then I can give myself permission to let that go. Does having empathy for a friend during a challenging time help her? If I am listening and supporting her in that moment then yes! What a great time to flex my superpower!
Charlotte Therapist for Anxiety
Theresa Leskowat MS LCMHC is a Charlotte based therapist who specializes in working with clients to lower anxiety, manage stress, and cope with perfectionism.