Hey folks! I hope you all are safe and doing well.
First things first, I realize HSP (highly sensitive personality) is not in the neurodivergence spectrum, but I don’t think there is a more suitable community for this. After a bit over a year of therapy, I have finally been identified as a person with hyper sensitive personality. In a sense, I’m relieved that I finally have a “label” for it and am now able to pick the correct tools from my toolbox to deal with some of my emotional issues.
In any case, I am writing here for those of you who identify yourselves or have otherwise been diagnosed as a HSP - what are your self-care routines/tools? For me it has always been essential to spend a few hours in the dark with no stimuli, listen to music that is usually a bit more complex technically, read poetry, experience art or other awe-inspiring scenes.
I would also like to know what your hobbies are. Do they take advantage of this trait of your personality?
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Meditation is a must, I’d say. To cope with the constant sensory stimulation one needs to stay connected to one’s internal signs and impulses. It also helps to learn to observe things without further analysis or reaction. I’d recommend looking into stoicism. I paint, write music and do all sorts of creative things, which clearly go hand in hand with an elevated sense of sensitivity. I definitely see it as a gift rather than a disability at this point in my life.
Ditto, I had a therapist recommend practiceing mindfulness with apps like medito or mindfulness coach.
I like to program and make stuff on the computer
I actually also enjoy programming quite a bit, but it can be quite daunting at times. Now when I’m a bit more aware of my mind, I think I can approach programming in a way that’s more productive and not as overwhelming. :)
You’ve got to be zen and willing to keep learning.
I identified as HSP for many years prior to my ASD/ADHD diagnosis, but for my entire adult life I’ve done the same: first, I’ve made my bedroom a haven, with a weighted blanket, blackout curtains, fairy lights, etc. and I feel free to retreat to my room when the world is too much. My room is my space, designed for my comfort. (I have a house, but naturally it’s family space and when I’m overwhelmed I really need to be alone).
I don’t force myself to stay on overstimulating situations because I “should”- if there’s a pressing reason I have to stay a bit longer but I just can’t, a five minute breather outside can make a huge difference.
I already mentioned the weighted blanket, but if you don’t already have one, you should get one- and make sure you get one that’s around 10% of your body weight for best effect. I bought mine at the start of the Pandemic and I swear it saved my life, it allowed me to feel safe when absolutely nothing felt safe. Another tool in my box that I would never trade is good noise-cancelling headphones. I’m so glad it’s acceptable to wear them in public nowadays, they have been a lifesaver.
Thank you for your comment! I’ve been on the fence about buying a weighted blanket for a while, but I’ll most definitely get one now! I’ve gotten used to ignoring my body cues and just staying in a situation even though it feels extremely uncomfortable. This is definitely something I need to work on. I also need to move to another house, I think. I currently don’t feel safe or comfortable where I live and it’s taking a bigger toll on my mental health than I was willing to admit.
