I'm far too sensitive

biglouis

For a contented life make as little use of social media as possible.

But WhatsApp isn't really social media is it? It's similar to a text between friends or family, often in a group.

I worry too when it comes to grandchildren. Their other parent abandoned them so I'm ultra sensitive about not hurting them any further; and I take rudeness in stride.

I am exactly the same.

If you use the microphone on WhatsApp you can leave a short message which can come across much clearer than a text which sometimes can be interpreted wrongly, I use the microphone a lot to friends and family

It’s wonderful that you are aware that you may be over sensitive and that it might be overshadowing your life.
What about contacting your local mental health support and asking for cognitive behavioural therapy? There are lots of mental “tools” you can learn to help you gain resilience.

zakouma66

An empath can feel the feelings of another. Sometimes before or instead of the original person grasping whats going on.

Or at least they think they can, My experience is that people like that are more often wrong than right.

I also think it is very intrusive, I wouldn't want someone, claiming to feel as I do in distressing situation, It would make a bad situation worse. I would rather seek the company of someone who respects my autonomy and offers sympathy.

I would consider seeing a therapist to learn different ways to process the information. Can be really helpful.

An empath can feel the feelings of another. Sometimes before or instead of the original person grasping whats going on.

flappergirl

This might sound like a very trivial, or even bonkers question, but are you by any chance a Pisces Skylight?

No & with respect I'd rather not say.

This might sound like a very trivial, or even bonkers question, but are you by any chance a Pisces Skylight?

Many people who others consider too sensitive have become so as a result of the insensitive or cruel behaviour of others.

If you are raised to expect the worst or are manipulated, put down or treated badly in life it can make you watchful or hypervigilant.

I was raised in a family where passive aggression, undermining and actual aggression were a constant threat...now I look for the signs of it.

Elrel

It has taken me a long time to realise that if someone is (or seems) brusque, short tempered or downright rude to me it is not my problem. It is their problem and I can only control my own reaction. We have little idea what may be on another person’s mind or how their day is going, try to give them a break.

Quite..don't make assumptions or take things personally

M0nica

Do not misinterpret what I said. I thought you were meant to be an empath!

I said that I struggle with the concept. I went no further than that.

That's absolutely ok Monica. As I said I've appreciated all the replies including yours. Each and every one gave me food for thought. Compared to the past few days I'm more at peace now which is my wish for all.

Do not misinterpret what I said. I thought you were meant to be an empath!

I said that I struggle with the concept. I went no further than that.

Skylight

Nell8, I have now read an article on compassion fatigue, thank you. I won't go into too many details but the past couple of years which include organising & supporting my family through a quick succession of bereavements, along with other supportive responsibilities, childcare etc has taken it's toll. This thread has helped me to realise before helping others you need to put on your own oxygen mask. Mine is now firmly on. Thanks again for all the replies, even the harsher ones. They have all helped.

Nell8

I've just been reading about compassion fatigue and how it can affect those who are natural caregivers. Is there an element of that in what you are experiencing, Skylight ? I certainly think the awful news we hear every day about human suffering can gradually undermine us, especially when we feel powerless to help.

I can't believe that before I read this I was in tears thinking about exactly this & wondering if its partly to do with my emotions at the moment. 🥲
Today I'm trying to give mind body and soul a rest but have ended up with the tears flowing,not a bad thing in my case. Thanks for the reply

I've just been reading about compassion fatigue and how it can affect those who are natural caregivers. Is there an element of that in what you are experiencing, Skylight ? I certainly think the awful news we hear every day about human suffering can gradually undermine us, especially when we feel powerless to help.

My reason for adding this thread is because I was having a particularly bad day. I've always been seen as someone to turn to for help and advice but occasionally someone to kick when people are down. Mostly I cope but yesterday I became angry and upset. I'm not working today and feel a lot better. Thanks for the replies.

Elrel

It has taken me a long time to realise that if someone is (or seems) brusque, short tempered or downright rude to me it is not my problem. It is their problem and I can only control my own reaction. We have little idea what may be on another person’s mind or how their day is going, try to give them a break.

Thank you, I do try to do this

fancythat

Whether an empath or not, not wise to soak up other's negativity.

If I did that, I would see if I could help right away.
Else leave things be, as their privacy.

Good advice

Whether an empath or not, not wise to soak up other's negativity.

If I did that, I would see if I could help right away.
Else leave things be, as their privacy.

It has taken me a long time to realise that if someone is (or seems) brusque, short tempered or downright rude to me it is not my problem. It is their problem and I can only control my own reaction. We have little idea what may be on another person’s mind or how their day is going, try to give them a break.

I think that's the trouble with people self diagnosing.

Narcicissts end up being akin to murderers, and empaths as almost angels on earth.

MissAdventure

Narcissists are attracted to empaths, apparently, because it is easy to manipulate them.

I'm not convinced of that, either.

Interestingly the opposite is true. They have a deep understanding of when they are being
manipulated and they have the abilty to act on it and with no trouble doing so. It's a form of protection.