What Does it Mean to be Highly Sensitive?
Being highly sensitive means having a nervous system that processes information and stimuli more deeply than average. This trait, often called Sensory Processing Sensitivity, can make everyday experiences more intense—both positively and negatively.
For example, you may feel overwhelmed by loud noises, bright lights, or crowded places, while also being deeply moved by art, music, or a touching moment. You might need extra downtime after social events, notice subtle changes in your environment that others miss, or feel emotions very strongly—both your own and those of the people around you.
If you often find yourself needing quiet to recharge or feeling “too affected” by situations, you are likely to be highly sensitive.
How to Survive and Thrive as a Highly Sensitive
The most important thing to realise the being highly sensitive is NOT a flaw, it is a valuable gift that plays an extremely important role in human society. Explore these carefully selected books to begin making the most of your precious sensitivity.
The Highly Sensitive Person by Elaine N. Aron
Elaine N. Aron’s groundbreaking classic introduces the concept of high sensitivity and helps readers embrace it as a strength rather than a weakness. With research-backed insights and practical guidance, Aron shows how sensitivity can enrich relationships, creativity, and personal growth. If you’ve ever felt “too sensitive,” this book offers validation, understanding, and tools to thrive in a fast-paced world.
The Empath’s Survival Guide: Life Strategies for Sensitive People by Judith Orloff
Judith Orloff combines scientific research and practical advice to help empaths and sensitive people protect their energy, set boundaries, and flourish. Covering everything from relationships to work to health, she provides strategies to manage overwhelm while celebrating the deep gifts of empathy. This guide empowers sensitive souls to see their compassion as a superpower, offering hope, wisdom, and everyday techniques for balance and joy.
The Highly Sensitive Person’s Guide to Dealing with Toxic People by Shahida Arabi MA
Shahida Arabi’s compassionate guide shows highly sensitive people how to protect themselves from toxic dynamics and harmful personalities. With empowering strategies rooted in psychology, it teaches readers to set healthy boundaries, heal from manipulation, and reclaim their emotional strength. Arabi highlights the unique gifts of sensitivity while providing clear, actionable steps to break free from negativity.
The Highly Sensitive: How to Find Inner Peace, Develop Your Gifts, and Thrive by Judy Dyer
Judy Dyer’s inspiring book helps highly sensitive people see their unique qualities as a gift rather than a burden. With simple explanations and practical tips, she shows how sensitivity can lead to greater intuition, creativity, and connection. From managing stress to building confidence, the book offers a roadmap to peace and self-acceptance.
The Highly Sensitive Person in Love: Understanding and Managing Relationships When the World Overwhelms by Elaine N. Aron
Elaine Aron applies her expertise on high sensitivity to the world of relationships, helping sensitive people create deeper, more fulfilling connections. With warmth and insight, she explains how sensitivity influences love, intimacy, and communication, while offering strategies to overcome challenges. Whether you’re single, dating, or in a partnership, this book provides tools to nurture closeness while honoring your needs.
DBT Skills for Highly Sensitive People: Make Emotional Sensitivity Your Superpower Using Dialectical Behavior Therapy Paperback by Emma Lauer LCSW
Emma Lauer blends the power of Dialectical Behavior Therapy with the needs of highly sensitive people, offering tools to transform emotional intensity into strength. Through accessible exercises and skills, readers learn to manage overwhelming feelings, improve relationships, and cultivate resilience. Instead of viewing sensitivity as a flaw, Lauer reframes it as a source of empathy and creativity. This practical and encouraging guide helps sensitive people live with confidence and balance.
Recommended books available in multiple formats and at great prices from Amazon.