Am I Highly Sensitive?

It’s overly simplistic to say there are people who are sensitive and those who are not. High sensitivity exists on a spectrum with around 20% of the population (1 in 5 people) being highly sensitive, and is found equally in males and females.

The questions below are based on the extensive work and research of Dr. Elaine N Aron, the author of The Highly Sensitive Person. It is a very good indicator as to whether you relate to the traits of a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP).
If you answer YES to 12 or more of the statements, it is very likely you are a Highly Sensitive Person:

• Depth of Processing
  1. I tend to think deeply about things and need time to process or analyze situations before I respond
  2. I am self-aware and have a rich, complex inner life
  3. I consider myself to be a perfectionist and can be very self-critical
  4. I am conscientious and try hard to avoid making mistakes or forgetting things
  5. I often day dream, and get lost in my own thoughts or fantasy
• Overstimulation
  1. I am easily overwhelmed by too much going on in the world around me (eg bright lights, loud noises, crowded places)
  2. I feel uncomfortable when I have too many tasks or too much going on at once
  3. I need to withdraw after a busy day into a place where I can recharge
  4. I enjoy time alone and need plenty of downtime
  5. I can be prone to overwhelm, burnout or anxiety when in more ‘toxic’ or challenging circumstances
• Emotional Intensity and Empathy
  1. I have a deep and diverse emotional landscape
  2. I am easily impacted by the mood or emotions of other people & often absorb others energy
  3. I am very aware and attuned to the needs of others
  4. When I see other people in physical or emotional pain, I also feel their pain
  5. I am conflict averse because conflicts can be so painful
• Sensitivity to Subtleties
  1. I feel deeply connected and moved by nature
  2. When I am being observed or need to compete, I get easily anxious or don’t perform as well as I normally would
  3. I struggle with changes in my life. It can take me more time to adapt to change. For example, a vacation can be difficult
  4. I seem to be aware of subtle changes in my inner, and external, environment
  5. I am deeply moved by beauty and the finer things, such as music, food, a sunset.
• Other criteria that may resonante:
  1. I may be particularly sensitive to caffeine, alcohol and/or pain medications, and only require very small amounts.
  2. I can get really agitated if I am too hungry. HSPs tend to be more affected by smaller changes in blood sugar levels and get hangry if they haven’t eaten.
  3. I carefully select my clothing to avoid scratchy clothing or uncomfortable material, and might need to adjust my outfit it it doesn’t feel right.
  4. I have been called ‘shy’ or ‘anxious’, especially as a child, and frequently feel misunderstood.

Note: this is not a diagnostic tool, and being highly sensitive is not a disorder or a disease.
I have found that identifying these unique traits in ourselves is an empowering process rather than a label that acts to limit or define our potential. Being aware of who we are helps direct us towards receiving the appropriate guidance and support as we navigate our way through life. It also enables us to identify and cultivate our unique strengths and gifts

Used with permission from Dr Elaine Aron. Find out more at www.hsperson.com.