If any of this sounds familiar, you might be wondering if you’re also an HSP.

“HSPs are deeply sensitive to certain physical, emotional or social situations,” explains Kelly Weekers, psychologist and author of The Power Of Choice. “They’re prone to feeling overstimulated and overwhelmed by situations, finding themselves triggered by loud places, negativity and stress.”

Research shows that being highly sensitive is fairly common, affecting around 20-30% of us. Common signs include reacting strongly to criticism, feeling overwhelmed in noisy or busy environments and struggling with change.

And being an HSP can affect all areas of our lives, from work to relationships with others.

“Because HSPs feel emotions deeply, they will be more affected by the people around them and the interactions they have,” says psychotherapist Kamalyn Kaur. “This can make friendships, in particular, harder to navigate.”

Navigating friendships as an HSP: how to make (and keep) friends as a highly sensitive person