Are You Highly Sensitive?
Did you know that being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) is an inherited trait? Approximately 15-20% of people are born with this trait, which often leads to misdiagnoses of major depression, ADHD, and anxiety. Unfortunately, many individuals with high sensitivity are prescribed medication without being equipped with the necessary tools to thrive. As a certified HSP Practitioner and an HSP myself, I have experienced the transformative power of understanding and embracing this trait. It has allowed me to break free from misdiagnoses, nourish my mind and body, regulate my nervous system, and develop empathy and tools to help others.
If you're curious about the possibility of being an HSP, read on to learn more.
Here are some common qualities associated with being a Highly Sensitive Person:
- Difficulty absorbing new information when overly aroused
- Performance issues when being watched
- Highly intuitive toward the feelings of others, sometimes to the point of feeling drained
- Sensitivity to light or loud sounds
- Prone to identity, boundary, and relationship issues
- Extreme irritability when hungry
- More sensitive to pain and aware of physical changes in the body
- Feelings are easily hurt, especially in childhood
Why Should I Care If I Have This Trait?
Living in a world that bombards us with constant stimuli can be overwhelming for anyone. However, for highly sensitive individuals, this sensory overload can have a profound impact on their health, particularly on their nervous system. Throughout the rest of this article, we will explore how being highly sensitive can worsen nervous system dysregulation and discuss strategies you can take to manage and mitigate these effects.
Understanding High Sensitivity:
High sensitivity, also known as sensory processing sensitivity, and it is a personality trait characterized by heightened awareness and responsiveness to external stimuli. Highly sensitive individuals tend to process sensory information more deeply and can be easily overwhelmed by loud noises, bright lights, strong smells, and other environmental factors. This heightened sensitivity can lead to a range of physical and emotional responses, including increased stress levels and autonomic nervous system dysregulation.
What Is Autonomic Nervous System Dysregulation?
Autonomic nervous system dysregulation refers to an imbalance or dysfunction in the autonomic nervous system (ANS), which is responsible for regulating involuntary bodily functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, and breathing. The ANS consists of two main branches: the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) and the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS). The SNS is responsible for the body's "fight or flight" response, while the PNS promotes relaxation and restorative processes. When the ANS becomes dysregulated, it can lead to a variety of symptoms and health issues, including anxiety, depression, chronic pain, sleep disturbances, and digestive problems. Highly sensitive individuals may be more prone to experiencing autonomic nervous system dysregulation due to their heightened sensitivity to external stimuli and increased emotional reactivity.
For highly sensitive individuals, the constant bombardment of sensory information can overwhelm their nervous system, leading to dysregulation. This dysregulation can manifest in various ways, such as increased anxiety and stress levels, heightened emotional reactivity, and difficulties in self-regulation. Additionally, highly sensitive individuals may be more prone to developing conditions like fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, and irritable bowel syndrome, which are often associated with nervous system dysregulation.
How Can I Support Myself If I Have This Trait?
While being highly sensitive can present challenges, there are strategies that can help manage and mitigate the impact on nervous system dysregulation.
Here are a few helpful tips:
1. Tune into your unique nervous system and explore your triggers. Understanding how your nervous system responds to different stimuli can help you develop coping mechanisms and avoid overwhelming situations.
2. Set boundaries that honor your capacity. Recognize your limits and establish boundaries to protect yourself from overwhelming stimuli. It's important to prioritize self-care and create a safe and nurturing environment for yourself.
3. Seek support from likeminded individuals. Connect with others who understand and validate your experiences as a highly sensitive individual. Joining support groups or seeking therapy can provide valuable insights and coping strategies. We have an amazing support group of women inside the Aligned + Renewed collective. You can learn more here.
4. Practice biblical self-compassion. Self-compassion is a healing balm for an overwhelmed soul. Learning to be kind and understanding towards yourself can help alleviate stress and promote emotional well-being. I teach on this concept inside our 12 week program here.
5. Balance your blood sugar with targeted nutrition and mineral support. Imbalanced blood sugar levels can worsen anxiety and other symptoms associated with nervous system dysregulation. Paying attention to your diet and ensuring adequate mineral intake can help regulate your body's responses. You can learn more about this topic here.
Conclusion:
Being highly sensitive can significantly impact your health, particularly in relation to autonomic nervous system dysregulation. By understanding the effects of high sensitivity and implementing strategies to manage and mitigate these effects, you can lead a healthier and more balanced life. Embracing your sensitivity as a unique trait and seeking support from others can also contribute to a greater sense of well-being. Remember, being highly sensitive is not a weakness but a God-given gift that, with proper care, can be harnessed to live a fulfilling and purpose-filled life.
