high sensitivity
"There is a crack in everything. That's how the light gets in."
- Leonard Cohen
Were you described as sensitive growing up, reacting to life with deep feelings? Have you been called “quiet” or “shy”, or told to come out of your shell? Do you notice details others overlook, take longer to prepare for and recover from certain activities, and feel more drained by noisy, crowded places?
If any of this sounds familiar, you might be a “highly sensitive person” (HSP). You are part of the 20-30% of the general population who have a trait called sensory processing sensitivity (SPS).
The Nature of Sensitivity
For sensitive people growing up in cultures where innate sensitivity is not accepted, they might believe they are broken and abnormal. They may seek to fix themselves, perhaps by masking their authentic thoughts, feelings, needs, and preferences to fit in.
But sensitivity is a natural variation in human temperament.
In The Haven, we see sensitivity as a normal part of our everyday life.
Whether the trait is new to you and you want to find out more, or you're interested in hearing stories and experiences of other sensitive people, you're in the right place.
You'll find a variety of conversations, articles, and podcast episodes related to high sensitivity below.
The Science of Sensitivity
High Sensitivity is commonly studied using psychological, neuroscientific, genetic, and behavioural methods.
Self-report questionnaires such as the Highly Sensitive Person Scale and SPS-Q Monitor help identify individuals with SPS, while brain imaging techniques (fMRI, EEG) reveal heightened brain activity associated with emotional and sensory processing.
Genetic studies explore the heritability of SPS, often linking it to specific genes. Psychophysiological measurements, such as heart rate and skin conductance, assess sensitivity to stress and stimuli.
Behavioural experiments and longitudinal studies observe how SPS influences attention, empathy, and life outcomes, while cross-cultural research confirms its presence across different populations and species.
Differential susceptibility shows that HSPs are more responsive to negative and positive environments, meaning they may struggle in challenging settings but thrive in supportive ones. Childhood is a critical period that shapes how an HSP interacts with the world.
Stories of Everyday Sensitivity
Personal reflections and notes about the joys, challenges, and surprises of life as a highly sensitive person. Do you have a story to share? I'd love to hear from you.
Navigating Sensitivity in an Insensitive World
Tools. encouragement, and support for those times when you need to find a way to cope in situations not designed with sensitive nervous systems in mind.
Designing Your Life With Sensitivity
How can you build environments, practices, and conditions that allow you to flourish WITH your sensitivity