By Kerri Ann Colby
Members of the Kindred Roots Book Club just finished reading ‘The Highly Sensitive Person: How to Thrive When the World Overwhelms You’ by Elaine Aron. Here are my reflections.

Before reading this book, calling someone "sensitive" felt like a polite insult. If I felt sensitive myself, or saw it in a loved one, it seemed like a weakness in a world that praises toughness. Our fast-paced, noisy society doesn't seem designed for deep feelers. As a result, an HSP can spend their life managing symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, and depression and feeling like there’s something wrong with them.

But Aron’s book revealed a core truth: Sensory Processing Sensitivity (SPS) is a real, inherited trait in 15-20% of people. She calls them Highly Sensitive Persons (HSPs). Suddenly, all those "flaws" made sense. Being overwhelmed by noise or needing quiet time wasn't weakness; it was just how a finely-tuned nervous system responds. Feeling emotions intensely wasn't dramatic; it was a profound way of experiencing life.

The Hidden Gifts of Sensitivity

Aron’s book reframed everything. HSPs possess incredible strengths:

Deep Empathy: They feel others' emotions profoundly.
Intuition & Insight: Their deep processing leads to unique perspectives.
Creativity: A rich inner world fuels artistic talents.
Conscientiousness: They notice details and care deeply.

These aren't vulnerabilities; they're powerful assets that enrich our lives and communities.

Navigating a Loud World

Despite these gifts, the book also highlights how tough it is to be an HSP in a world not built for them. Constant stimulation can lead to burnout. Misunderstandings are common because their reactions seem "too much" to others.

If you're an HSP struggling with overwhelm, or if you love one and want to better understand their needs, Aron's book is a must read. And remember, a licensed professional therapist can offer tailored strategies for coping, setting boundaries, and fostering deeper understanding. Integrating the book's insights with professional support can make a huge difference.

The Highly Sensitive Person changed my perspective. It helped me and those I care about see sensitivity not as a curse, but as a remarkable, valuable trait.

Are you looking for an in-person therapist for sessions in Okotoks, Alberta or maybe online sessions for residents of Alberta, BC, Saskatchewan, Ontario, and the Yukon? The Team of therapists at Kindred Roots Therapy are here for you. Contact our Client Care Coordinator to find the perfect match therapist for you.