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What Makes Highly Sensitive People Struggle

Being a highly sensitive person (HSP) means you experience life in a very deep way. This can be a gift, but it also means you might face unique challenges. In this blog, we’ll look at what triggers these challenges and how you can manage them.

PSYCHOLOGY INSIGHTS

2 min read

What Triggers Struggles for Highly Sensitive People?

Highly sensitive people often feel things more intensely. Here are some common triggers that can lead to suffering:

Too Much Stimulation: HSPs can get overwhelmed by loud noises, bright lights, or crowded places. This can make them feel exhausted or anxious.
Strong Emotions: Because they feel emotions deeply, HSPs might get overwhelmed by their own feelings or the feelings of others. This can lead to feeling drained or stressed.
Social Pressures: Navigating social situations can be hard for HSPs. They might find it difficult to meet social expectations and feel isolated or stressed.
Perfectionism: Many HSPs set very high standards for themselves. When they don’t meet these standards, they might feel like they’re not good enough, leading to stress and anxiety.
Conflict and Criticism: HSPs might take criticism or conflict very personally, which can hurt their self-esteem and emotional well-being.

How to Handle These Challenges

Knowing what triggers your sensitivity can help you manage it. Here are some tips:

Create a Safe Space: Have a quiet place where you can relax when you feel overwhelmed. This helps you feel calm and recharge.
Set Limits: It’s okay to avoid things that might be too overwhelming. Learn to say no to situations that drain you.
Practice Relaxation: Use techniques like meditation or deep breathing to help you stay calm and manage stress.
Get Support: Talking to a counselor or therapist can give you tools to handle stress and navigate social pressures. They can help you find ways to feel better.

Resources for More Information

To learn more about high sensitivity and its effects, you can check out these articles:

Aron, E. N., & Aron, A. (1997). The Highly Sensitive Person: How to Thrive When the World Overwhelms You. Broadway Books.
Pluess, M., & Boniwell, I. (2015). High Sensitivity: The Science and Practice of a Trait. In T. J. H. Morris (Ed.), The Science and Practice of High Sensitivity (pp. 45-67). Springer. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-20101-2_3
Nijssen, M., & Willemsen, K. (2018). High sensitivity and emotional overload: A review. Journal of Affective Disorders, 238, 30-40. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2018.05.062

Remember, being sensitive is a part of who you are. By understanding your triggers and using these tips, you can find ways to live a balanced and happy life.