What does it mean to be a highly sensitive person? | Aeon Essays
Briefly

Being highly sensitive involves deep processing of experiences, resulting in thoughtfulness, creativity, and heightened empathy. Individuals are often easily overwhelmed by stimuli, leading to careful self-management in social situations. The recognition of this trait, encapsulated by the acronym DOES, highlights the emotional and sensory experiences unique to highly sensitive individuals. This innate trait is not just limited to humans as it can also be observed in various species of animals, suggesting a broader evolutionary advantage in heightened awareness.
High sensitivity includes deeply processing experiences, leading to greater empathy, creativity, and an acute awareness of one's surroundings, though it can also lead to overwhelm.
Those who experience high sensitivity often feel drained after social interactions due to their heightened emotional and sensory awareness, making self-care essential.
The acronym DOES - Depth of processing, Overarousability, Emotionally responsive, Empathic, and Sensitive to subtle stimuli - encapsulates the characteristics of high sensitivity.
High sensitivity is an innate survival strategy seen not just in humans but also in various animal species, indicating its evolutionary significance.
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