The Highly Sensitive Person

I am a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP).  This trait was first researched and written about by clinical psychologist Elaine N. Aron, Ph.D. in The Highly Sensitive Person – How to Thrive When the World Overwhelms You, 1996.  Elaine Aron states that 15-20 percent of the population has the HSP trait, which is about fifty million people in the United States.  The HSP has a nervous system that is much more sensitive than other people’s nervous systems.  This means that the HSP will be much more aware of subtleties in their surroundings and can become more easily overwhelmed by a highly stimulating environment or experience.  In our culture this trait is not considered ideal and HSP’s are often labeled as shy, oversensitive, or having some defect.  Often the HSP is not understood and isn’t taught how to manage such a sensitive nervous system, and they can become physically unwell and live with low self-esteem.  Many HSP’s need to learn the advantages to their trait and how to appreciate themselves and live healthy and well with a sensitive constitution.  Dr. Aron’s book is a good place to start and many other books and resources on this topic can be utilized as well.