Let us look at what high sensitivity is.
High sensitivity
High sensitivity refers to a heightened sensitivity to stimuli from the environment and a deeper processing of those stimuli. Highly sensitive people often experience the world more intensely and have a rich inner life.
Characteristics of high sensitivity:
- Deep processing of information: Highly sensitive people perceive many details and process them at a deep level.
- Emotional reactivity: They often have strong emotional reactions to both positive and negative stimuli.
- Empathy: A strong ability to sense the emotions of others and respond to them.
- Awareness of subtleties: They notice subtle changes in their surroundings that others may not notice, such as small changes in mood or atmosphere.
- Sensory sensitivity: They can quickly become overwhelmed by bright light, loud noises or busy environments.
Challenges of high sensitivity:
- Overstimulation: Because of their sensitivity, highly sensitive people can quickly become overwhelmed by too many stimuli, which can lead to stress and fatigue. The same sensitivity means that they often perceive deeply, empathise well and notice details that others miss.
- Emotional overload: The deep processing of emotions can sometimes lead to feelings of anxiety or depression.
- Need for rest: They often need more time to relax and recover after intense experiences.
High sensitivity in the context of neurodiversity
High sensitivity fits within the broader concept of neurodiversity, because it represents natural variation in human development and experience. Recognising high sensitivity as part of neurodiversity helps to promote an inclusive society in which these unique characteristics are valued and supported.
How can we offer support?
- Education: Provide adjustments that both challenge and support gifted and highly sensitive pupils. This can be through accelerated learning, enrichment programmes or quiet learning environments.
- Workplace: Offer flexible working arrangements that take account of the need for low-stimulus environments and challenging tasks.
- Care and support: Care providers should be aware of the unique challenges and needs of gifted and highly sensitive people, and offer suitable strategies for emotional and mental support.
By recognising high sensitivity and giftedness as valuable aspects of neurodiversity, we can create a more inclusive and supportive society in which everyone can reach their full potential.
Read more: High sensitivity is not a disorder.
Prof. dr. Jim van Os, Chair Division Neuroscience, Utrecht University Medical Centre. Jim works at the interface of ‘hard’ brain science, health services research, art and subjective experiences of people with ‘lived experience’ in mental healthcare.
Jim has been appearing on the Thomson-Reuter Web of Science list of ‘most influential scientific minds of our time’ since 2014. In 2014 he published his book ‘Beyond DSM-5‘, and in 2016 the book ‘Good Mental Health Care’. In 2026 he published 'Wat psychisch lijden is'.
Want to read more?
Blogs by Jim van Os can be read here
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