My HSP Mantra

Highly Sensitive Person (HSP)

I found out I was a highly sensitive person (HSP) about ten years ago. Since then, I have learned a lot about myself and my experiences. I am grateful for this information as it has allowed me to be more patient with myself and others, and as a result, have learned more about grace!

Things to Do For Yourself or HSP Loved One When Feeling Overwhelmed

Over the years, I have learned a few things that have allowed me to kinder to myself and others. It has also been helpful to teach those closest to me to use them as well when I’m feeling overwhelmed. I hope they are able to help you or your HSP loved one as well.

It’s Going to be Okay

Sometimes the hardest things about being a HSP is the overwhelm and overthinking that comes with the trait. People often describe the trait as being able to see all sides to people’s opinions or concerns. The Pandemic is an excellent example in that there were opinions from all walks of life about the importance or dangers of wearing a mask in public. A HSP saw all sides of the debate and may have had a difficult time making a decision as a result.

One of the best phrases my loved ones can say to me when I’m overwhelmed or overthinking is, “It going to be okay.” This immediately reassures me that I will be able to figure it out. Just as I have figured out all the other 899,765,439 decisions that I have made previously! Even if you’re not sure if it IS going to be okay, this allows your HSP to calm down. It offers enough reassurance that they will be able to figure it out.

We’ll Figure it Out

The next best thing to hear as a HSP is that “We’ll figure it out” and not necessarily, “You’ll figure it out.” While that seems like a very small difference in wording, when you use “we” the HSP brain has an easier time relaxing. They know they are not alone in their ability to problem solve. When you say, “you” will figure it out, the HSP brain goes back into panic mode. Basically they’ve been wrestling with this decision for days or weeks and they haven’t figured it out yet. Letting them know that you will be with them to talk it out or help them figure out gives them reassurance. The HSP brain can quiet down and make a wise choice.

Summary

The overwhelm and overthinking are two of the biggest obstacles I see HSPs struggle with and this includes adults and children! By using these two phrases you too can help your HSP loved one settle down and make a wise choice!

Peace Family Counseling

I hope this helps you understand the HSP trait and the language that most HSPs find helpful. If you are feeling burned out, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, marriage/relationship issues, please feel free to contact us here. We’d be happy to hear what is happening.

We could help you find the right counselor to help you feel better quickly. You can also head over to our website to read our bios and request a specific therapist. Our physical office is located in Greenwood, Indiana and we offer teletherapy to anyone in the state of Indiana.