Lauren Valko, Author at Sensitive Refuge

Why Do So Many Highly Sensitive People Struggle with Social Anxiety?

Most HSPs avoid large social events. But when does a healthy preference for solitude stray into social anxiety?

If a situation you can’t control is living rent-free in your head, you’re probably overthinking it. Here’s what to do about it.

Whatever social media platform you’re on, there’s a lot going on. This can be overstimulating for anyone, but it’s especially intense for HSPs.

Since HSPs are very affected by stimuli, like the scent of a freshly painted wall, chemical sensitivity can feel all the more intense.

1 in 5 people are born with a trait that causes them feel emotions strongly — and cry easily.

Joy has many health benefits, like reducing stress, which can help when HSPs feel overstimulated.

Most HSPs go above and beyond for others’ emotions. But it’s essential to take time for yourself and prioritize your emotions, too.

When an HSP is listening to someone talking, they can feel what the speaker is feeling, which makes for a meaningful exchange.

What if this New Year is about doing less, instead of more?

Routines put HSPs back in the driver’s seat — they provide an element of control that’s always there, even if the world around you is shifting.

HSPs have plenty of empathy to “feed” on, which makes them prone to “energy vampires.”

Since HSPs are easily overwhelmed by external stimuli, certain activities are more their speed than others.