We tend to describe someone who cries easily or feels emotions more profoundly than others as crybabies or sensitive. While it often comes with a negative connotation, being sensitive or even highly sensitive has its perks.
We got curious as to how a highly sensitive person can navigate the challenges of a harsh world, and we know you are too. So here’s an enlightening interview we had with Grace Hu, Clinical Psychologist with Relate Malaysia who spoke about the powerful mix of vulnerability and resilience.
1Twenty80: How is the term ‘highly sensitive people’ (HSPs) defined in the context of psychology?
Grace Hu: Highly Sensitive People (HSPs) is conceptualised by Elaine N. Aron, who is an American clinical research psychologist. It was only recently, in the 1990s, that we were introduced to HSP. In a nutshell, HSPs are people who are extremely sensitive to outside stimuli.
Emotional inputs such as deep sadness and rage, as well as sensory inputs like bright lights, loud noises, and strong smells, can all be considered stimuli. HSP is not a mental health diagnosis or disorder. It’s more of a personality trait, in my opinion, with its advantages and disadvantages.
“Emotional inputs such as deep sadness and rage, as well as sensory inputs like bright lights, loud noises, and strong smells, can all be considered stimuli.”
1Twenty80: What are the characteristics of HSP?
Grace: Some of the characteristics of HSPs include:
1Twenty80: What causes high sensitivity?
Grace: As of yet, the precise cause of high sensitivity in HSPs remains unknown. But I would say it’s likely to be a complex interplay of everything. Environmental factors, neurological conditions, and genetics could all play a role.
One way to look at it is that you might already have some genetic predispositions that make you more sensitive. You might then experience a mental health issue. You can eventually feel overwhelmed by life’s stresses.
Sometimes, when people deal with early trauma or significant life events that leave an impact on their lives, they may develop heightened sensitivity. Again, it must be stressed that HSP is not a diagnosis but rather a personality trait that has its pros and cons.
1Twenty80: How do you assess whether an individual is highly sensitive?
Grace: There is a HSP quiz developed by psychologist Elaine Aron that can be used as a self-assessment tool. However, it’s not a diagnostic tool.
It’s a means of improving your self-awareness. So if you feel like you just want to understand why you feel so deeply, this can be one way.
However, in the event that you have persistent anxiety, low appetite and or insomnia. Then, as these are indicators of a mental health issue, you ought to get assistance as soon as you can. It doesn’t hurt to have a qualified professional confirm it if you’re not sure either.
1Twenty80: What are some of the strengths and weaknesses of HSPs?
Grace: Every HSP is different. They all have their own unique set of strengths and weaknesses. Generally speaking, their greatest strength is their extreme compassion and empathy. Being deeply sensitive to others’ feelings is a very significant gift since it allows you to provide them with much-needed consolation and support. HSPs frequently have a high degree of insight since they are able to analyse information thoroughly.
Regarding vulnerabilities, having such heightened sensitivity can potentially result in overstimulation. HSPs may find it difficult to adjust to new environments or intense stimuli. They are more likely than other people to get extremely tense or nervous. Additionally, they might be more easily offended by criticism, which could cause them to worry excessively and strive for perfection.
1Twenty80: How can HSPs cope with these challenges?
Grace: I would say the first step is really to recognise, accept, and embrace your high sensitivity. It’s neither a flaw nor a disorder. It’s a personality trait. You can better govern yourself if you are self-aware.
You’ll be able to communicate effectively, recognise your triggers, and form deep connections. Being able to accept both your positive and negative traits is a wonderful thing since they define who you are. Learn to accept and love yourself unconditionally.
One thing I like to do with my clients is activity scheduling. If you know reading helps you a lot, set time for it in your schedule. After you’ve scheduled it, honour that time. By doing this, you will actively work on yourself and give yourself time to relax and unwind.
1Twenty80: What advice would you give to HSPs navigating the world?
Grace: Most of the time, we hold ourselves responsible for our inability to blend in with others. This self-deprecating self-criticism is not helpful at all and can cause breakdowns.
It’s better to embrace the challenge and seize the chance to improve and learn instead. Because logically speaking, three months down the road, you’ll be a more competent and courageous self than before.
You can improve upon yourself if you view it as a chance to learn and strengthen your resilience. But remember, balance is the key to life, so always treat yourself with kindness.
We hope our conversation with Grace Hu has given you a clear understanding of what it’s like to be a highly sensitive person. By recognising each individual’s unique strengths and sensitivities, we can foster a more compassionate and inclusive world. So, let’s celebrate the richness that HSPs bring to our lives and continue on a path of mutual understanding and growth.
