A “highly sensitive person” (HSP) refers to someone who experiences heightened sensitivity to stimuli in their environment, whether emotional, sensory, or social. This trait, scientifically known as sensory processing sensitivity, is thought to be innate and present in around 15-20% of the population. HSPs often process information more deeply, noticing subtleties that others may overlook. They may be more affected by loud noises, bright lights, or intense emotional atmospheres, and are often deeply empathic, picking up on the moods and feelings of others. While this sensitivity can be a gift, allowing for greater creativity and emotional insight, it can also lead to overwhelm or stress in situations where others may feel unfazed. Recognizing and respecting these sensitivities is important for maintaining well-being and ensuring that HSPs are in environments that support their unique way of processing the world.
the highly sensitive person
