Highly Sensitive Person (HSP)

What is HSP?

Studying when you worry easily or feel a lot High sensitivity, also known as HSP (Highly Sensitive Person), is a personality trait. About 15–20% of people have an increased sensitivity to stimuli from their environment, both physical and emotional. HSPs notice subtle details more quickly, experience emotions more intensely, and need more time to process impressions.


Sophie (19) “Everything hits harder”

I really love learning. Gaining new knowledge, developing myself—that usually gives me energy. But honestly? The first weeks of a new term are tough. I’m tired—not just a bit tired, but truly exhausted. I find it hard to concentrate, and I notice I get emotional more easily than usual.

My friends sometimes say, “Maybe you’re just a bit sensitive?” But to me, it doesn’t feel like just being sensitive. I pick up on tension in a group, even when no one says anything. It’s like I have some kind of built-in antenna for atmosphere. And after a day full of classes, noise, and social interaction, my head just feels... full. All I want then is silence.

I’ve tried all sorts of things: to-do lists, planning, taking breaks—but most of those time management tips only help a little. So I keep wondering why I feel so drained after a study day. And what can I actually do when I feel overstimulated?

Ambience photo Fontys