Being a highly sensitive person is typically called a personality trait. But, there’s more to it than meets the eye. The HSP brain processes information differently, and there have been plenty of studies to prove it. Research on Sensory Processing Sensitivity (SPS) shows that HSPs share a lot of common traits, from their response to bright lights and loud noises to their reaction to physical touch. The more you can understand your brain, the more grace you can give yourself. Here are some things to know about how a hyper sensitive person’s brain works. 

There are some challenges to being a highly sensitive person. As therapists who specialize in HSPs, we don’t see high sensitivity as a flaw. We recognize the incredible gifts your high sensitivity offers. You’re more empathetic than the average bear, and your sensitivity can bring a lot to the table. At Therapy for Highly Sensitive People, we believe there are many strengths to being an HSP. Here are three reasons to be proud of your sensitivity. 

The idea of setting boundaries can be overwhelming as a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP). Sometimes we worry that others will get mad at us if we ask for something or abandon us if we say no. Even though it can be hard, you can still set boundaries even as a highly sensitive person. 

Written specifically for HSPs, these four tips can help you learn how to set boundaries with the people in your life.

Highly Sensitive People (HSPs) have the gift of deep empathy. Being constantly aware of others’ feelings has its advantages. And, it can also cause trouble and make HSPs do things like abandon your own needs and fall into a people-pleasing trap. This can push HSPs to say “yes” to everything. 

If you’re wondering why HSPs struggle with trying to please everyone, here are three major reasons, and some steps you can take to break the cycle. 

The best way to support someone in the immediate throes of grief, or the long-term pangs of loss, is to hold space for them to experience their feelings to the fullest. The more you try to take the pain away, the more you may be (unintentionally) hurtful. If you’re trying to comfort someone in grief right now, here are some tips to keep in mind.

Therapy for Highly Sensitive People is a therapy space that helps HSPs cope with common life challenges. HSPs have a hard time finding a therapist who understands high sensitivity - working with a therapist who doesn't get it can exacerbate the shame and brokenness HSPs already tend to feel. We're here to help HSPs embrace the gifts of their sensitivities and learn to love their tender souls.

The changing of the seasons usually means fewer outdoor activities, less socializing, and more time spent cooped up at home by yourself, with your partner, or with your family. If you're a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), the increased time at home might be both good and bad. A lot of HSPs are introverts and this season offers a natural time of rest and rejuvenation. And, as an HSP you're also likely highly sensitive to your environment.

A highly sensitive person or HSP is an individual who feels overwhelmed or experiences heightened responses to stimuli. This is often a heightened emotional reaction to everyday situations and events. What does that really mean? Many HSPs go through life feeling overwhelmed or like there’s something wrong with them. They think that responding differently means that people just don’t understand them. It can feel very lonely and isolating, and many HSPs try to disguise or repress their responses in order to fit in.

Grief is not something anyone enjoys. It is a difficult, painful process. Whether you are experiencing bereavement, the specific kind of grief related to the loss of a loved one who has passed away, or grief following another type of loss, allowing yourself to mourn and come to terms with the loss is essential. This can be especially true for someone who is considered a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP). HSPs are people who feel things more deeply, experience a stronger connection with their emotions, or need more time to process feelings. When HSPs are working through grief and loss, they may have a different experience compared with people who are not highly sensitive. In this blog, we’ll talk a bit about how grief can impact HSPs differently and what they should keep in mind when navigating the grief process.