How to respond when someone says you're too sensitive | cheeky sister stuff (2023)

Have you ever been told that you are very sensitive? Maybe dozens of times or more? If so, you would probably like to know.how to react when someone says you are too sensitive, To the right?

Every time this has happened to me over the years, I've asked myself, "Why am I so sensitive?"But I don't ask that question anymore - I accept that my sensitivity is part of my character and personality.

This change was part of my ownpersonal growthover the years and my understanding that sensibility has a multitude of origins. Sensitivity also brings with it many wonderful character traits.

I now accept that sensitivity is acceptable - in fact, I pride myself on being a sensitive person.I consider it my superpower.

But let's explore this topic further as it can be quite tricky.

How to respond when someone says you're too sensitive | cheeky sister stuff (1)

Content to hide

1What does it mean when someone says you are too sensitive?

1.1 What "You're Too Sensitive" Really Means

1.2 Is it bad to be called overly sensitive?

(Video) How to deal with overly sensitive people; Take themselves too seriously

1.3 Why am I getting so sensitive?

2How to React When Someone Says You're Too Sensitive

3You are too sensitive quotes

4 Final Thoughts on Being Sensitive

4.1 Have you ever been told that you are too sensitive? How do you react?

Related article:50 Powerful Affirmations for Self Love

What does it mean when someone says you're too sensitive?

Many things can happen when someone saysyou are very sensitive. But they usually mean that you get hurt too easily, or you get upset about things, or that you overdo something.

When someone says you're too sensitive, it can also mean:

  • You need to toughen up.
  • Can't take a joke?
  • Why do you take everything so personally?
  • You must learn to let things go.

It is usually a criticism of your character and therefore reflects the other person's character rather than your own.

What "You're Too Sensitive" Really Means

"You're too sensitive" usually doesn't refer to you - it's more often about the other person making such a statement on purpose - a person who is manipulative and cruel.

(Video) 8 Things That Make a Highly Sensitive Person Hard To Love

Remember that people who criticize others are often hurt, angry, or not feeling well, or have other deep psychological issues that are likely to be more of a problem than sensitivity.

In psychology, a comment like "You're too sensitive." it could be a form of verbal abuse or gaslighting. Gaslighting happens when someone tries to control you by distorting your sense of reality. When you make a critical comment, they try to blame you for their negative behavior because they don't want to admit they said or did something wrong.

You may also be called "oversensitive" if you have expressed your displeasure with the other person by being disrespectful to you. Instead of taking responsibility for the disrespectful behavior, the person will try to blame the mistake on you. It's your fault, isn't it? Whyyou are very sensitive.

Narcissists will accuse you of being "too sensitive" to control you or make you feel bad. Again, this is never about the accuser, is it?

When someone calls you too sensitive, they are dismissive, critical and/or manipulative. It's not really about you.

Is it a bad thing to be called overly sensitive?

Someone calling you "too sensitive" is rude and disrespectful, so yeah - it's a bad thing.

But being sensitive is a bad thing - no, it's not a bad thing.

Sensitivity is the basis of sympathy and empathy. It is the basis for compassion, kindness and understanding. These are great qualities to possess.

Being labeled as overly sensitive actually means your emotions are being discarded. It's not about whether you're too sensitive or not - you're great just the way you are! And you should never let another person invalidate your emotions.

The only reason sensitivity can be tricky is if you feel like you're causing inner conflict for some reason. That's a totally different discussion.

But the reality is that sensitivity isn't a weakness, it's a strength – and you should be proud of it.

Why am I getting so sensitive?

There are many reasons why you might be sensitive. Sometimes we are more emotional when we are going through difficult or stressful times. Recent grief, trauma and stress can make us more emotional.

Some people tend to be emotionally sensitive simply because it's part of their personality. We all process and experience emotions differently. Emotions are part of our biological wiring - all special and unique.

Remember, there's nothing wrong with being sensitive. About 15-20% of the population is highly sensitive, so you're not alone.

Your upbringing and genetics also contribute to your sensitivity. Life experiences and values ​​help shape your sensitivity. And the list goes on.

Research shows that sensitive people tend to be more aware of the subtleties around them and are easily overwhelmed by these factors.

you are hypersensitive No, not at all. You are exactly as you should be.

(Video) If You’ve Been Accused of Being Too Sensitive... Watch This Video

So it's time to trust that there are many, many factors that make a person sensitive - and it's a wonderful quality to possess.

How to respond when someone says you're too sensitive | cheeky sister stuff (2)

How to React When Someone Says You're Too Sensitive

You can choose how to react when someone tells you that you are overly sensitive.

You can ignore the comment. Or you can try to explain your sensitivity.

Your response should be based on your relationship with the person making the comment and their intent.(although it's never alright). Your response should also be based on your feelings about the circumstances under which the comment was made. And it should be based on how you feel about your sensitivity.

Here are some things you could say:

You could say,"It sounds like you think sensitivity is a weakness. But feeling things deeply is a strength for me.”So don't try to explain yourself further. Either the person will understand or they won't and their sanity is not worth arguing about.

You can reply with information by saying:"Are you aware that sensitive people are very empathetic, creative, caring and intuitive?"This can lead to a more in-depth conversation if that's what you want. otherwise, this would be the end of the discussion.

or you could say"Please don't say that to me. It's not up to you to decide how sensitive I should or shouldn't be. But thank you for your concern."So stop wasting time discussing your sensitivity. Remember that the person saying this is trying to put you down in order to feel more powerful over you.

Here are some additional ideas to consider:

Stop explaining.Just stop feeling the need to explain yourself to everyone who makes that comment to you. You know that sensitivity is not a negative trait. Internalize this fact. Believe. owning it Don't allow yourself to discuss the problem or explain it to anyone.

Don't allow yourself to be vulnerable.Don't put yourself in situations where you are vulnerable to critical or manipulative people. Be aware of the types of people who put others down and don't let them into their world.

Don't take the bait.Often people who criticize others are looking for an answer or a confrontation. These types of people need chaos and drama in their lives to feel important. If they see you as a sensitive person, they may consider you an easy target. Don't give in to them.

work on youThis doesn't necessarily mean working on becoming less sensitive. That means learning to set boundaries for people. Learn to be confident in your choice of responses to people. And if a comment about your sensitivity triggers you, you might want to seek therapy to help you deal with the triggers and learn to see your sensitivity as a positive trait.

discover theCharacteristics of a highly sensitive person(HSP). You may indeed be a highly sensitive person (HSP) and would benefit from learning more about living with your superpower.Highly Sensitive Person or HSP is a term coined by psychologist Elaine AronIn the 90's.Are you an HSP?

How to respond when someone says you're too sensitive | cheeky sister stuff (3)

You are very sensitive quotes

use theseinspirational quotesBeing sensitive as inspiration to remember your sensitivity is YOUR SUPERPOWER - it's not a negative trait. Don't let others make you feel bad for being a sensitive and caring person.

"You're not very sensitive. You don't overreact. If it hurts you, it hurts you. Don't let anyone invalidate your feelings. Always."

~ unknown

"Being soft-hearted doesn't make you weak. It takes courage to remain tender in a world that is sometimes cruel."

(Video) How To Respond When People Insult You? Funny & Direct English Phrases In Response To Insults.

- Unknown

"Being sensitive is a superpower that will heal the world."

-Glennon Doyle

“Highly sensitive beings suffer more, but they also love more, dream more and experience deeper horizons and happiness. If you are sensitive, you are literally alive in this incredibly beautiful world. Sensitivity is your strength. Keep soaking in the light and spreading it to others.”

—Victoria Erickson

"It's okay to be sensitive. That's what happens when you have magic in your heart."

- UnknownN

“Highly sensitive people are often perceived as weak or harmful goods. Feeling intensely is not a symptom of weakness, it is the hallmark of the truly alive and compassionate. It is not empathy that is broken, it is society that has become dysfunctional and emotionally deficient. There is no shame in expressing your authentic feelings. Those sometimes described as "hot messes" or "too many problems" are the very fabric of what keeps the dream of a more humane and supportive world alive. Never be ashamed to let your tears shine in this world.”

~ Anthony Saint Maarten

"I'm a highly sensitive person. I don't just listen to your words. I hear your choice of words, your tone of voice, your body movements, your eyes, your subtle facial expressions. I can interpret your silence; I can hear everything you say. don't say it with words."

- Unknown

"I will never apologize for having too much soul, too much emotion or too much love to give. You weren't able to handle my kind of love and that's your problem, not mine."

— What Katia

“I was born with a soul too sensitive for this cold and ugly world; I've always felt things deeply and differently than most people. That has always been my blessing and my curse.”

– Reggie Nulan

"Some say I'm too sensitive, but the truth is, I feel too much. Every word and every action goes straight to my heart."

~ unknown

“Sensitive people should be valued. They love deeply and think deeply about life. You are faithful, honest and true. Sometimes the simple things mean the most to them. You don't need to change or harden. Their purity makes them what they are.”

~ unknown

“As a highly sensitive person, I can sense your moods a mile away. Don't try to hide them. You are not fooling me.”

– Tracy M. Kusmierz

"Everyone can hear, but only the sensitive can understand."

— Khalil Gibran

“To be sensitive simply means to be able to perceive things. Sensitivity means liveliness. To be in harmony with life. To be drugged is to be dead.”

- Unknown

"Never apologize for being sensitive or emotional. It's a sign that you have a big heart and aren't afraid to let others see it. Showing emotion is a sign of strength."

– Brigitte Nicole

"Sometimes I think I need a free heart to feel all the things I feel."

- Unknown
How to respond when someone says you're too sensitive | cheeky sister stuff (4)

Final Thoughts on Being Sensitive

Who knew sensitivity could be so complicated, right? I hope this has given you some ideas on how to react when someone tells you that you are overly sensitive. Being sensitive is such a wonderful quality that helps you understand people better and express compassion.

That's what people have told me in my personal and professional life - but as an educator, I take great pride in being sensitive and compassionate towards other people. Unfortunately, it took me a long time to articulate this when someone commented that I was too sensitive.

So let's go out together and be well prepared to see how you're going to react when someone says you're too sensitive! We can do it!

(Video) The sensitive Indians annoy me #comedy #funny #indian

When you work on your personal growth, you can enjoy it too.55 awesome self-growth quotes to inspire your personal development.

Greetings everyone! ~Suzanne

Have you ever been told that you are very sensitive? How do you react?

Please share your thoughts in the comments section below :)

FAQs

What does it mean when someone says you are very sensitive? ›

A highly sensitive person is someone who feels things strongly, whether those things are positive or negative. This can include their own emotions, the emotions of others, and sensory stimuli in the world around them.

When someone says you are too emotional? ›

Being overly emotional means that a person is considered by others to display emotions easily, exaggeratedly, or inappropriately. It is often associated with being considered temperamental or fragile. Sometimes the accusation of being overly emotional has more to do with their inability to cope with your emotions.

How do you react to a sensitive person? ›

The Staffing Experts 🚀 Global…
  1. Modify your language. ...
  2. Ask them to set their emotions aside. ...
  3. Talk about the consequences. ...
  4. Identify what causes them stress. ...
  5. Take care with criticism. ...
  6. Be honest about your feelings. ...
  7. Don't interrupt their focus.
Apr 22, 2017

Is being called sensitive rude? ›

“You're being too sensitive” — in the wrong hands — is almost always an insult. While, yes, sometimes an emotional response to a situation may be incommensurate, it's a sentiment that too often passes as a legitimate argument or, worse, concern.

What not to say to a sensitive person? ›

10 Worst Things You Can Say to a Highly Sensitive Person
  • You need to go faster. ...
  • Its not that big of a deal. ...
  • I know how you feel. ...
  • You are too emotional. ...
  • It doesnt have to be perfect. ...
  • That smell is not that strong. ...
  • Why does it take you so long to eat? ...
  • Really, you need another break?
Sep 10, 2016

Is calling someone sensitive Gaslighting? ›

Someone who's gaslighting might: insist you said or did things you know you didn't do. deny or scoff at your recollection of events. call you “too sensitive” or “crazy” when you express your needs or concerns.

Do narcissists say you're too sensitive? ›

10. You're too sensitive. This can come from both narcissistic parents or partners. They say this because they don't want to acknowledge that their words hurt you, so they make it your fault.

At what point is someone too sensitive? ›

Key points. High sensitivity can be defined as acute physical, mental, and emotional responses to external or internal stimuli. A highly sensitive person will likely “feel too much” and “feel too deep.” Signs can include various sensitivities about oneself, others, and one's environment.

How do I fix being too emotional? ›

Here are some pointers to get you started.
  1. Take a look at the impact of your emotions. Intense emotions aren't all bad. ...
  2. Aim for regulation, not repression. ...
  3. Identify what you're feeling. ...
  4. Accept your emotions — all of them. ...
  5. Keep a mood journal. ...
  6. Take a deep breath. ...
  7. Know when to express yourself. ...
  8. Give yourself some space.
Apr 28, 2020

Is being too emotional not good? ›

Summary. Emotions, even intense ones, are common and normal. As long as they do not undermine a person's quality of life or cause them to harm themselves or others, there is no reason to worry about occasional intense emotions. That said, prolonged emotional issues could signal an underlying health condition.

What do you say when someone is feeling emotional? ›

Show them you sympathise by saying:
  • "It sounds like you're dealing with a lot at the moment"
  • "I'm really sorry to hear that you're feeling like this right now"
  • "I'm really glad you're sharing this with me"

How do you make a sensitive person happy? ›

15 Simple Things That Make Highly Sensitive People Happy
  1. From spending time in nature to getting some alone time, it's all about the little things that make highly sensitive people happy.
  2. Connecting with others — even just greeting strangers with a friendly smile and “Hello!”
Sep 3, 2021

What are the traits of a highly sensitive person? ›

HSPs are known to be highly observant, intuitive, thoughtful, compassionate, empathetic, conscientious, loyal, and creative. In fact, managers consistently rate people with higher sensitivity as their top contributors.

Is being sensitive a negative trait? ›

Although there may be times when things can get overwhelming and stressful due to being highly sensitive, being sensitive should not be viewed as a negative trait. The highs of life can bring more joyful experiences and happiness than someone who is not an HSP.

Can being too sensitive ruin a relationship? ›

Being in love involves being sensitive to the beloved. However, too much sensitivity can ruin love; indiscriminate sensitivity, like indiscriminate freedom, is problematic as it disrupts our order of priorities, which is structured according to our personality and values.

Is it OK to be too sensitive? ›

Being sensitive isn't a negative personality trait that should be frowned upon or seen as weak—sensitive people are often richly empathic, and feel with other people. Empathy is different from sympathy and fosters connections that can be hard to make.

What hurts a highly sensitive person? ›

Highly sensitive people may be more affected by certain situations such as tension, violence, and conflict, which may lead them to avoid things that make them feel uncomfortable. You might be highly touched by beauty or emotionality. Highly sensitive people tend to feel deeply moved by the beauty they see around them.

How do you apologize to a sensitive person? ›

Saying, "When I said [the hurtful thing], I wasn't thinking. I realize I hurt your feelings, and I'm sorry," acknowledges that you know what it was you said that hurt the other person, and you take responsibility for it. Don't make assumptions and don't try to shift the blame.

What is narcissistic gaslighting? ›

Narcissistic gaslighting is a form of gaslighting that is abusive and motivated by wanting to exert control and feel superior. Gaslighting manipulates another person (or group of people) into doubting their own memory, perception, and potentially their sanity.

How does a gaslighter talk? ›

According to Psychology Today, gaslighting typically begins gradually, with a snide comment or critical remark disguised as a joke. The gaslighter may then deny having said or done something, tell blatant lies and eventually project his or her bad behavior or traits on you.

What are the 4 D's of gaslighting? ›

There are four primary types of gaslighting behaviors: the straight-up lie, reality manipulation, scapegoating and coercion.

What to say to a narcissist to shut them down? ›

The following are 16 key phrases to disarm a narcissist:
  • 1. “ ...
  • “I Can't Control How You Feel About Me” ...
  • “I Hear What You're Saying” ...
  • “I'm Sorry You Feel That Way” ...
  • “Everything Is Okay” ...
  • “We Both Have a Right to Our Own Opinions” ...
  • “I Can Accept How You Feel” ...
  • “I Don't Like How You're Speaking to Me so I Will not Engage”
Dec 28, 2021

What are the 5 main habits of a narcissist? ›

Common Narcissist Characteristics
  • Inflated Ego.
  • Lack of Empathy.
  • Need for Attention.
  • Repressed Insecurities.
  • Few Boundaries.

How do I know if I'm too sensitive? ›

Are quick to feel negative emotions such as sadness and anxiety. Become overwhelmed with physical stimuli such as sound, light, and smells. Have never felt comfortable around crowds. The energy of the crowd easily overwhelms you.

Are sensitive people gifted? ›

She discovered that 87% of gifted people are also highly sensitive.

When you confront someone and they turn it around on you? ›

They turn the story around to make it seem like you are at fault, deflecting attention and blame away from them to make you feel guilty. This type of emotional manipulation is called gaslighting. [clickToTweet tweet=”“Am I going crazy? Am I being too sensitive?

How do you not let others affect you? ›

Here are five ways to not let difficult people ruin your day.
  1. Stop talking about how miserable they are. ...
  2. Stop creating fake scenarios in your mind. ...
  3. Find reasons to be thankful for the difficult person. ...
  4. Set boundaries. ...
  5. If you continually have a difficult time with people, consider the difficult person may be you.
Jun 13, 2017

What drugs turn off emotions? ›

Antidepressants that commonly cause emotional blunting include:
  • selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) escitalopram (Lexapro) paroxetine (Paxil) fluoxetine (Prozac) sertraline (Zoloft)
  • serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) duloxetine (Cymbalta) venlafaxine (Effexor XR) desvenlafaxine (Pristiq)
Apr 22, 2022

Why do people get too emotional? ›

Feeling heightened emotions or like you're unable to control your emotions can come down to diet choices, genetics, or stress. It can also be due to an underlying health condition, such as a mood disorder or hormones.

Why you shouldn't ignore your emotions? ›

“Suppressing your emotions, whether it's anger, sadness, grief or frustration, can lead to physical stress on your body. The effect is the same, even if the core emotion differs,” says provisional clinical psychologist Victoria Tarratt.

What are the consequences of being too emotional? ›

You may find that you can't concentrate, are irritable and easily distracted, sleep badly and get tired easy. Fear and anxiety can also cause physical effects on the body including: overbreathing (hyperventilating) shaking.

How do you become emotionally supportive over text? ›

Here are some suggestions for language to use to achieve this outcome:
  1. “I'm here for you.”
  2. “What do you need right now?”
  3. “I'm happy to listen any time.”
  4. “I'm sorry you are going through this.”
  5. “That sounds really challenging.”
  6. “I can see how that would be difficult.”
May 11, 2022

How do you respond to a touching message? ›

So touching ~ Thank you!
  1. So touching ~ Thank you!
  2. You knocked me off my feet.
  3. I am so grateful for the lovely gift.
  4. All I can say is, thanks!
  5. Please accept my thanks and this card for all that you've done for me. ...
  6. Thanks for being there when I needed you.
  7. You're a blessing to me.
Dec 12, 2018

Are highly sensitive people moody? ›

For people who are not highly sensitive, HSPs can seem moody, “oversensitive” and “neurotic.” But research has demonstrated that HSPs are only more neurotic (the tendency to be anxious and depressed) than others if they had childhoods punctuated by trauma and adverse events.

What personality type is sensitive? ›

The introverted (I) intuitive (N) types (“INs”)—INFJ, INFP, INTJ and INTP—are among the most “sensitive” of the personality types. This is especially true of those who are more turbulent than assertive.

What kind of people are highly sensitive? ›

If you're a highly sensitive person, you have a heightened awareness of the stimuli around you, which can be good or bad. HSPs tend to be bothered by violence and can easily be overwhelmed, which leads them to avoid certain situations. Highly sensitive people can also be very creative and have a deep level of empathy.

What are the three types of highly sensitive people? ›

The three subtypes of highly sensitive people include Aesthetic Sensitivity (AES), Low Sensory Threshold (LST), and Ease of Excitation (EOE). Before we explain what each of these means, it's important to note that HSPs can fit into more than one subtype, each subtype has its own characteristics.

How can you tell if someone is overly sensitive? ›

8 Signs You May Be a Highly Sensitive Person:
  1. You're very emotional. ...
  2. You're very compassionate and generous. ...
  3. You're sensitive to criticism. ...
  4. You feel different from everyone else and sometimes alone. ...
  5. You're sensitive to external stimuli. ...
  6. You overthink and worry. ...
  7. You're intuitive. ...
  8. You often feel tired and overwhelmed.

Are highly sensitive people selfish? ›

If you are a Highly Sensitive Person who struggles to separate your feelings from others, feels deeply selfish for tending to your own needs, or feels overwhelmed by the needs of others, take heart. Your sensitivity is not a curse, and it can be a wonderful gift.

What is an example of a narcissist text message? ›

In this case, you might expect examples of narcissist text messages such as “I'm in the hospital, but I'm ok now,” “I can't feel my arm, but I don't think I should worry, should I?”, “I've had some bad news, but there's nothing you can do about it.”

What is casual gaslighting? ›

Gaslighting has become a popular phrase in the past few years - one that you might hear tossed around in casual conversations. It refers to a manipulative tactic employed by someone to make another person doubt their memory or feel “crazy” (Johnson, 2021).

Is being silent gaslighting? ›

The silent treatment is strikingly similar to gaslighting, as both flourish in power and control. In fact, some therapists call the silent treatment a form of gaslighting, used to cause personal uncertainty, and a sense of doubt when considering goals, self-views and worldviews.

Are highly sensitive people needy? ›

Highly sensitive people are not the same as emotionally needy, whiny, complainers. They aren't victims, and they're not making up problems just to get attention. We all know people like that, but there are key differences: Victims are focused on themselves, while HSPs are often focused on others.

What are the three types of highly sensitive person? ›

The three subtypes of highly sensitive people include Aesthetic Sensitivity (AES), Low Sensory Threshold (LST), and Ease of Excitation (EOE). Before we explain what each of these means, it's important to note that HSPs can fit into more than one subtype, each subtype has its own characteristics.

Are highly sensitive people jealous? ›

1. Jealousy. The dictionary defines jealousy as "feelings of worry over the potential loss of something valuable." In business, experiencing jealousy is fairly common, but those feelings are amplified if you're a highly sensitive person.

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