Highly Sensitive People (HSP) have unique ways of experiencing the world that are often overlooked or dismissed in mainstream society. Most research on high sensitivity so far has focused on neurobiology, viewing it through a narrow, scientific lens. While this research has helped validate the trait known as Sensory Processing Sensitivity (SPS) it only scratches the surface of what it means to be an HSP. We still have much to learn about how HSPs experience their inner and outer worlds, find purpose, and navigate their unique challenges and gifts.
What is Unique about HSP?
HSPs process information more deeply and have nervous systems that are highly attuned and responsive to their internal and external environments. Research also shows that they have higher levels of empathy due to more activation in the mirror neuron system of the brain. They are more impacted by the emotions and moods of others and appear to be more in tune with subtle changes in their nervous system.
In my experience, HSPs are also highly intuitive, connecting with realms beyond the conscious mind and more readily able to enter expansive states of consciousness. They frequently report vivid dreams and sensitivity to the emotions and energies of others. Dr. Elaine Aron suggests that HSPs have a strong connection to the collective unconscious, a concept introduced by Carl Jung, which encompasses universal symbols and patterns shared across humanity.
According to Dr. Elaine Aron and from my personal experience and research, HSPs seem to have a thinner boundary between their conscious and unconscious minds. This also includes what exists in the personal and collective unconscious. They often experience stronger intuition and a deeper understanding of others. This heightened sensitivity also leads many HSPs to seek a connection with something greater than themselves, which can be understood as a spiritual calling.
A Soul Calling
While research suggests that high sensitivity is influenced by both genetics and environment, psychologist James Hillman proposed the idea that we each carry a “blueprint” for our unique purpose in life. I propose this is the case for HSP — that our sensitivity has a particular purpose which needs to be accessed and understood for each of us as individuals.
Unfortunately, society often pressures HSPs to suppress their gifts to conform to cultural expectations. HSPs have been compared to archetypal priestly advisors, who balance reflection with action and maintain a connection to the divine. However, like the priestess archetype, HSPs have historically faced persecution for their spiritual insights, leading to the suppression of their abilities.
The Problems HSP Face
Modern society tends to dismiss or pathologise the gifts of HSPs, particularly their intuitive and spiritual experiences. This is partly due to a bias in Western scientific thought, which often disregards knowledge that doesn’t fit within its materialistic framework. As a result, many HSPs suppress their abilities to “fit in,” leading to feelings of isolation and disconnection from their true selves.
What’s Needed…
It is essential to create spaces where HSPs can explore and embrace their unique ways of knowing without fear of judgment or pathologisation. By approaching sensitivity from a more holistic perspective, we can recognise its connection to personal growth and spiritual development. Supporting HSPs in cultivating their intuitive awareness is crucial for their transformation and can contribute to the healing and growth of both individuals and society.
About the Author
Jules De Vitto has a BSc in Psychology, MA in Education and MSc in Transpersonal Psychology, Consciousness and Spirituality and is an accredited transpersonal coach, trainer and experienced educator. She is the founder of the Highly Sensitive Human Academy — a central hub that offers courses, coaching, articles and a podcast for Highly Sensitive People. She helps those who identify with the traits of high sensitivity to navigate emotional overwhelm, step into their authentic power and align with their true purpose in life.
She is a published author and wrote one of a series of books on Resilience, Navigating Loss in a time of Crisis. Her research has also been published in the Transpersonal Coaching Psychology Journal and Journal of Consciousness, Spirituality, and Transpersonal Psychology.
In addition to her academic and coaching pursuits, Jules has spent years engaging in deep transformative healing work. She is a Reiki Master and Teacher and has completed Michael Harner’s Shamanic Practitioner Training through the Foundation of Shamanic Studies and a Grief Ritual Leadership Training with Francis Weller.
Jules is passionate about creating community for Highly Sensitive People and embracing the full spectrum of our emotional and sensory capacities rather than trying to ‘fix’ ourselves. Deepening the connection to our sensitivity enables us to open our hearts and form better relationships with ourselves, others and the world.
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