In some cases, the person might wish they were less sensitive, or that they could turn it on and off at will. However, there’s no way to do this.
Sounds, lights, smells, and tastes may feel more intense, which can be overwhelming. They may be more sensitive to the injustices of the world. They may get startled easily. Other people’s disapproval may be especially devastating to them. Conflict may feel terrifying. They may experience headaches, dizziness, nausea, and weakness when overwhelmed. They may need extra down time. People may misunderstand or react unkindly to their sensitivity. The person may be accused of being dramatic, weak, manipulative, lazy, high-maintenance, or any number of things.
Sensory Processing Disorder Autism ADHD An anxiety disorder
Conscientious Kind, empathetic, and caring Creative Good with animals Good at giving advice Passionate Genuine Deeply thoughtful Good at problem solving
If you’re trying to help the person (like if they’re your child), then focus on helping them gain coping mechanisms and skills, instead of trying to make them less sensitive. You can’t “fix” the sensitivity, but you can help them learn to cope with it better.
“You mentioned that loud noises bother you. Would you prefer to eat outside, instead of in the crowded cafeteria?” “I noticed that you covered your eyes when I opened the blinds. Do bright lights often bother you?” “I saw that you got pale when Richard started talking about details of his surgery. Are medical things an upsetting topic to you?”
If you want to persuade them, go for an encouraging and supportive tone. This is better than being pushy, which can make them shut down. Sensitive people may be easily rattled by an impatient or aggressive attitude. If you’re losing your cool, try taking a break, and apologizing if you upset them.
For example, instead of hanging out in a crowded mall, they might prefer getting takeout to eat at the park.
Try to avoid surprises in general. [9] X Research source
“Why are you so sensitive?” “You’re too sensitive!” “You’re just doing this for attention. " “Get over yourself. " “Stop being so dramatic. " “You need therapy to fix this problem. "
“I can tell you’re pretty stressed. " “I’m not surprised you’re overwhelmed. It is pretty loud in here. " “It’s okay to cry. I don’t mind. " “Take as long as you need to calm down. There’s no rush. " “Of course you’re hurt. It wasn’t right of her to call you names. " “I’m here for you while you deal with this. " “You’re allowed to be upset. "
Never take out your feelings on the sensitive person. They’re doing the best they can (just like you are), and it’s important to stay kind. If you do mess up and treat them unkindly, don’t beat yourself up. Instead, apologize and say you’ll try to be more considerate next time.
“I know that noise from the laundry bothers you. It’s hard for me to figure out a time to do laundry that works for both of us. Could we talk about a good laundry schedule?” “It hurts my feelings when people tease me about my bald spot. I know we do friendly teasing sometimes, and I’m okay with that. Let’s just keep that part off-limits, okay?” “I’m sorry that I hurt your feelings when I made that comment about your picture. It was thoughtless of me. I’ll try to be more considerate of your feelings in the future. "
