Understanding the Highly Sensitive Nervous System
In a fast-paced and often overwhelming world, some people possess a highly sensitive nervous system, which means their nervous system responds more intensely to stimulation, it takes in a greater volume of information at any given time, and the information is processed more deeply.
In other words, if you have a highly sensitive nervous system you will perceive and process sensory information with greater depth and sensitivity, leading to unique experiences and challenges. Understanding your wiring with a highly sensitive nervous system is essential for both yourself and those you interact with.
A highly sensitive nervous system is NOT a weakness.
You may have been told “stop being so sensitive” or “you are just too sensitive.” These statements come with negative connotations or judgment. I want to be clear that highly sensitive nervous systems are not a weakness at all! It can actually be a great strength when you learn how to navigate it and optimize it. Just google” highly sensitive people who are famous” and you will see numerous people with this wiring who have accomplished great things!
A highly sensitive nervous system refers to a heightened responsiveness to sensory input, including emotional, social, and environmental stimuli. It is estimated that around 15-20% of the population possesses this trait. Let’s look at some characteristics of Characteristics of a Highly Sensitive Nervous System (otherwise known as HSP’s):
Sensory Processing Sensitivity: You may have an increased sensitivity to sensory stimuli such as noise, light, temperature, and textures. You may find certain environments overwhelming or uncomfortable, seeking calm and quiet spaces to recharge.
Emotional Awareness and Empathy: HSPs possess a heightened emotional awareness, perceiving subtle emotional nuances in others and themselves. You may display high levels of empathy, attuned to the emotional states of those around you. This sensitivity can lead to a deep understanding and connection with others but also make you more vulnerable to emotional overload.
Depth of Processing: HSPs tend to process information more deeply and reflect on situations, leading to rich inner experiences. You may analyze things from multiple perspectives, making you an insightful and creative thinker. However, this depth of processing may also lead to overthinking and a tendency to become overwhelmed by decision-making.
Benefits of a Highly Sensitive Nervous System:
Now that we have an understanding of what a highly sensitive nervous system is, let’s look at some of the benefits.
Enhanced Empathy and Compassion: HSPs' heightened empathy enables you to deeply connect with others and provide valuable emotional support. You may be an exceptional listener and could offer valuable insights due to your ability to perceive subtle emotional cues.
Attention to Detail and Creativity: The depth of processing and observation skills of highly sensitive individuals contribute to your ability to notice and appreciate intricate details. This attention to detail fuels your creativity, allowing you to excel in artistic endeavors, problem-solving, and innovation.
Challenges and Coping Strategies:
Being an HSP in a world that is not geared toward this wiring comes with challenges and it is important to have coping skills you can utilize. Here are a few of the challenges alongside some coping skills that can help.
Overstimulation and Sensory Overload: You may become easily overwhelmed by busy environments, loud noises, or bright lights. To cope, you can create calm and soothing spaces, practice grounding techniques, and set boundaries to manage your exposure to overstimulating situations.
Emotional Vulnerability and Self-Care: Your intense emotional experiences can be both a strength and a challenge. Engaging in self-care practices like mindfulness, journaling, and seeking support from understanding individuals can help manage emotional well-being.
Decision-Making and Boundaries: Your tendency to deeply analyze situations can lead to decision paralysis. Setting clear boundaries, practicing self-compassion, and breaking down choices into manageable steps can help mitigate decision-making challenges.
Communication and Assertiveness: Effective communication is vital for you to express your needs and boundaries. Developing assertiveness skills, such as using "I" statements and active listening, can facilitate healthier interactions and relationships.
Embracing Sensitivity:
It is crucial to embrace and celebrate the highly sensitive nervous system rather than viewing it as a weakness. You bring unique strengths to the world, such as deep empathy, creativity, and an ability to notice. So whether you are an HSP or you are in relationship with an HSP, seek to understand and celebrate the gifts it brings.
Here are a few resources in case you want to read more about your experience or that of someone you love.
The Highly Sensitive Person: How to Thrive When the World Overwhelms You: Elaine N. Aron: 9780553062182
The Highly Sensitive Person's Workbook: Aron Ph.D., Elaine N.
The Highly Sensitive Person in Love: Understanding and Managing Relationships When the World Overwhelms You
The Highly Sensitive Parent: Be Brilliant in Your Role, Even When the World Overwhelms You
The Highly Sensitive Child: Helping Our Children Thrive When The World Overwhelms Them
https://hsperson.com
