If someone says these 7 phrases, they’re probably a highly sensitive person
How often have you encountered someone who seems to feel things more deeply than others?
That individual who can pick up on the subtlest shift in mood or tone, who appears to be affected more by their surroundings or the emotions of those around them?
These folks might be what we call a “compassionate person.” Now, don’t get me wrong. This isn’t a negative label or an indication of weakness—quite the opposite.
High sensitivity can be a superpower! It allows individuals to connect with others on a deeper level, empathize more intensely, and experience life in rich, nuanced ways that many may miss out on.
Specific phrases can serve as clues. If someone regularly says these seven things, they might be susceptible.
Let’s delve a little deeper, shall we?
1) “I need some time alone”
It might seem like an ordinary statement, but it carries more weight for susceptible people.
Here’s the deal.
Susceptible people often absorb more sensory information than others. This could be in the form of emotions, sounds, sights, or even smells. It can be incredibly overwhelming.
When they say they need some time alone, it’s usually because they must recharge and decompress. It’s their way of handling the sensory overload that comes with their heightened sensitivity.
It’s not that they don’t enjoy socializing or being around others – they need regular intervals of solitude to balance out their intense sensory experiences.
2) “That affected me.”
I remember a friend, who I now realize is highly sensitive, would often say, “That affected me.” This could be in response to a movie, a news story, or even an interaction with a stranger.
For instance, once, we watched a particularly intense drama film together. The movie was moving and thought-provoking, but it affected my friend deeply. He was quiet and contemplative for hours afterward. He later admitted that the film had stirred up intense emotions in him.
Susceptible individuals often internalize experiences and emotions more profoundly than others. They’re expressing their genuine, deep-seated feelings. It’s part of their sensitivity superpower!
3) “I can’t just ignore it”
Let me tell you a story.
Years ago, I worked on a group project with a colleague who often used this expression. We were dealing with a tricky situation at the time – one team member wasn’t pulling their weight, but everyone else was reluctant to confront the issue.
Not my colleague, though. She used to say, “I can’t just ignore it,” and would address the problem directly because she couldn’t overlook something affecting the team’s harmony and productivity.
That’s when I realized she felt things on a different level. She was more affected by the dynamics and emotions within the group than the rest of us.
Sensitive people have a keen sense of justice. They’re deeply affected by unfair situations or wrongdoings. They can’t just look the other way because their heightened empathy prevents them from doing so.
4) “I feel overwhelmed”
It’s not uncommon for susceptible people to voice this feeling. Why, do you ask?
Due to their heightened sensitivity, these individuals often experience a flood of emotions and sensory information, quickly making them feel swamped or overwhelmed.
Picture this.
Imagine you’re at a bustling party with loud music, flashing lights, and scores of people. It’s fun, energetic, and vibrant. But for a compassionate person, it can be incredibly overwhelming. The music might seem too loud, the lights too bright, and the crowd too intense.
It’s a clear indicator of their sensitivity and their need for quieter, less sensory-loaded environments.
5)”I noticed that too.”
Susceptible individuals have a knack for noticing things that others may miss. They might pick up on a change in someone’s tone of voice, a subtle shift in body language, or even a slight change in the environment.
When a compassionate person says, “I noticed that too,” they demonstrate their keen observation skills and heightened sensitivity to the world around them.
It clearly shows their empathetic nature and deep understanding of their surroundings.
6) “I need to think it over.”
I’ve often been the person who needs extra time to process things, especially when it comes to making decisions. Whether choosing a new book to read or making a life-altering choice, I’ve always needed time to think things over thoroughly.
Susceptible people like me tend to process information more profoundly than others. We ponder every detail, consider all possible outcomes, and weigh the potential emotional impacts before deciding.
It’s a sign of our careful consideration and deep thought process – an inherent part of being highly sensitive.
7) “It’s too much”
When a compassionate person says, “It’s too much,” it’s a genuine expression of their experience.
They’re not exaggerating or being melodramatic. Their heightened sensory processing makes them more susceptible to feeling overwhelmed, especially in excessively noisy, chaotic, or emotionally charged situations.
This phrase pleads for understanding and empathy from others. It’s a way for them to communicate their need for space, quiet, or time to recharge.
Final thoughts
Remember, sensitivity isn’t a flaw. It’s a unique trait that allows individuals to experience life profoundly and nuancedly. They’re not being dramatic or attention-seeking. They’re expressing their authentic, sensitive selves.
If you’re one of these susceptible people, or you recognize these traits in someone you know, embrace it. There’s beauty in sensitivity. It allows for deeper connections, richer experiences, and a unique perspective on the world.
Be patient with yourself or others who exhibit these traits. Please give them the space they need and appreciate them for the depth of their emotions and experiences.