The Highly Sensitive Person's Survival Guide

Highly sensitive people (HSPs), who make up some 20 percent of the population, are individuals who both enjoy and suffer from a finely tuned neurological system. This condition can be a gift, but, until HSPs master their sensitive nervous systems, they operate in a constant state of overstimulation. Conditions that most of us ignore completely overwhelm the HSP: bright light, loud sounds, and strong smells. More importantly, HSPs are also very sensitive to their internal worlds. They tend to be deeply affected by pain, both emotional and physical. The emotional demands of relationships and inevitable consequences of change often leave them reeling.

If you're a HSP, the most important thing you must learn is how to manage your increased volume of sensory experience, both physical and emotional stimulation. This accessible, practical guide contains strategies that help you master this critical skill. The book starts with a brief description of the highly sensitive person, and then offers a self-examination quiz, which allows you to assess whether you are highly sensitive. Then the book outlines coping techniques specific to the plight of the HSP. You'll learn tips for reducing the influence of provocative sensory experiences, such as excessive light and noise in the home and office. Meditation and relaxation techniques help you to reduce the anxiety caused by heightened sensitivity. Easy-to-follow exercises guide you through the challenges of communicating and interacting with others in both social and intimate relationships.