Is being hyper sensitive a negative or a positive trait? (57)

kettleson: It is though a bit dodgy on a site like this though Jac .
But hopefully myself and you and others would help those that needed it .

Also the none cyber world were we all tread as well have lots of situations were we dont look away but try and help those who are in need .

Best wishes

2intrigued: Hiya Babe1994 Perhaps this might help you a little. It's from a site that I personally found to be very helpful with my own sensitivities. There is also a self-test you can do to get an idea of where you fit...

If you find you are highly sensitive, or your child is, you need to begin by knowing the following:

Your trait is normal. It is found in 15 to 20% of the population--too many to be a disorder, but not enough to be well understood by the majority of those around you.
It is innate. In fact, biologists have found it to be in most or all animals, from fruit flies and fish to dogs, cats, horses, and primates. This trait reflects a certain type of survival strategy, being observant before acting. The brains of highly sensitive persons (HSPs) actually work a little differently than others'.
You are more aware than others of subtleties. This is mainly because your brain processes information and reflects on it more deeply. So even if you wear glasses, for example, you see more than others by noticing more.
You are also more easily overwhelmed. If you notice everything, you are naturally going to be overstimulated when things are too intense, complex, chaotic, or novel for a long time.
This trait is not a new discovery, but it has been misunderstood. Because HSPs prefer to look before entering new situations, they are often called "shy." But shyness is learned, not innate. In fact, 30% of HSPs are extraverts, although the trait is often mislabeled as introversion. It has also been called inhibitedness, fearfulness, or neuroticism. Some HSPs behave in these ways, but it is not innate to do so and not the basic trait.
Sensitivity is valued differently in different cultures. In cultures where it is not valued, HSPs tend to have low self-esteem. They are told "don't be so sensitive" so that they feel abnormal.http://www.hsperson.com/

2intrigued: I agree, it's an interesting trait that deserves to be investigated further to get a better understanding of not only sensitivity but links to other traits as well. There are so many useful resources available on the internet if one wants to delve into the topic.

babe1994: Do you think being overly sensitive is a negative or positive trait? I'm a very sensitive person and someone can make me upset so easily..I find it very hard to forget the sad emotions.I Think about them for days or weeks..

2intrigued: Wouldn't it be nice if everyone would at the very least, try to gain a better understanding of certain traits instead of judging based on what they think to be "normal" behaviour? What's normal these days anyway. I personally seek out friendships with those who have an open mind towards understanding and acceptance beyond the norm.