For me, the realization that I was high on the empathy spectrum was a life changing moment. I believed the world felt as deeply as I did. I believed there was something wrong with me and the rest of the population was capable of handling their emotions better than I could.
I remember my doctor telling me I was an Empath and diagnosed me as a Highly Sensitive Person “HSP”. She confided in me and said she could relate: “It is a gift and a curse if not understood”, she remarked. I felt as if I finally had the answer of what was “wrong” with me. I began to understand I was just different and I could stop comparing myself to others.
Below are some examples of what it feels like to be an Empath.
- I can read a room in seconds and actually feel the atmosphere and mood of the room.
- I can feel other people’s feelings so deeply that it feels like I’m actually feeling them too. I need to keep an awareness of the separation boundaries of the other person so I do not enmesh.
- I can absorb other people’s physical symptoms.
- I have a high sense of intuition; I am aware not to be intrusive to others.
- I can feel depleted and have learned self care pays dividends.
- I deeply care for other’s well being. And, I have learned to set healthy boundaries so that I do not take on other peoples problems.
Thanks for reading,
Bren Worthington
