Neurotic or Highly Sensitive. What is Neuroticism? And what is being Highly Sensitive? Is being a highly sensitive person the same as being neurotic or are they very different?
Neuroticism – Being Neurotic
Neuroticism is viewed as a personality trait that experiences chronic emotional instability and a tendency towards experience a high decree of negative emotions such as fear, anxiety, jealousy, sadness, volatility.
People who suffer from high levels of neuroticism find it difficult to manage their stress, anxiety and at times anger. They often shy, insecure, suffer from low self-esteem, self-doubt and confidence, they can suffer from serious mood swings, jealousy and even rage.
Being Highly Sensitive
While being a HSP a Highly Sensitive Person is a deep and highly aware nervous system that picks up the most subtle stimuli that other people are unaware or in some ways immune to. This can have a positive and negative impact on the individual.
If we look at some of the available scientific studies on those said to have Sensory Processing Sensitivity (SPS). High levels of sensitivity is regarded as both a biological trait and wider temperament trait.
They sensitive basically process internal and external stimulus more deeply, traits which are found in specific genetic variants.
Similarities Between High Sensitivity And Neuroticism
Both neuroticism and high sensitivity are similar in that they involve a higher reactivity to certain situations, stimuli etc. But there is some distinct differences.
While neuroticism is directly linked to a negative emotional state; fear, anxiety, anger, irritability, sadness. And shows up as maladaptive coping mechanisms such as emotional outbursts, irrational behaviour, addiction and self-medicating.
High levels of sensitivity has a distinct biological basis on how the brain and nervous system functions.
But like everything in life we can all fit on different levels of those scales and at specific times in our lives. I would definitely say I was a highly sensitive child I showed traits of high anxiety, self-consciousness, anxiety and fear but I was also extremely empathic.
Common Challenges of Someone Who is Neurotic
Hypersensitivity To Others
Easily offended, hurt or emotionally reactive, often an over internal reaction.
Unhealthy Rumination
They overthink, ruminate on the past; suffer from chronic negative thoughts and beliefs.
Relationship Difficulties
Lack trust in others, overly defensive or suspicious in relationships, or depend on others for personal reassurance and comfort.
Intense Emotional Reactions
Someone with neurotic traits can be more prone to controlling behaviour; jealousy and possessive behaviour in close relationships. Suffer extreme emotional outbursts such as anger, rage and other irrational behaviour.
Common Challenges Of Someone Suffering High Sensitivity
Hypersensitive To Environment
Are more easily stimulated aware of their surroundings, sounds, lights, smells and energy of people around them, they tend to be more impacted by their external environment.
Sensitive To Food, Medication
Highly sensitive people are often more sensitive to certain foods and medication. You could also say they have a low tolerance to things that are more toxic, unhealthy.
Overwhelmed And Exhausted In Crowds, Large Groups
Sensitives get easily fatigued, overstimulated and overwhelmed by bigger groups of people. It is very energetically taxing on their nervous system.
Easily Ungrounded And Uncentred
Someone who is highly sensitive can find it difficult to stay grounded and centred in their body.
Higher Levels Of Empathy
Sensitives do tend to have more higher levels of empathy and compassion for people, animals especially those regarded as empaths.
Is It Common For Highly Sensitive People To Suffer From Neuroticism?
In my work, I have came across clients and students who assumed they were just highly sensitive or even highly empathic. When in reality they showed extreme signs of neuroticism.
But the reality is being so sensitive internally and externally makes you more likely to extend into some neuroticism. So you can be both.
The main difference is the highly sensitive empath’s who has too much empathy and awareness on our other’s needs. Is less likely to have the same selfishness and self obsessed tendencies that come with neuroticism until they perhaps reach burnout and empathy fatigue.
Daily Activities That Can Help Reduce Neurotic Traits
There are many things that can help reduce nervousness, over anxiety, emotional instability. Such as meditation, mindfulness, tai chi, qi gong, yoga, gentle relaxation and breathing techniques, as well as grounding techniques. My advice is to avoid or reduce therapies that can be too stimulating.
Eileen Burns is a highly experienced therapist, coach and healers of over 25 years who supports highly sensitive people and empaths get more soul aligned and empowered in their life and business check out more about her, her offerings and soul-led communities at www.eileenburns.com
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