What Helps Manage My Sensitivity?
Life experience has been paramount. I understand it, accept it and have worked out strategies to help me handle it. It’s not always possible because I believe being sensitive is part of my genetic makeup, but my efforts have definitely benefited me in managing bipolar.
- I listen, help and empathize with people’s problems but I can let them go and be mindful of my own mental wellbeing.
- If someone is not compassionate or empathic I see it as their problem and not mine.
- I listen only to those I trust because they know me, support me and understand me.
- If I feel oversensitive and find myself spiralling downwards I try to distract myself or share my thoughts with someone who can rationalize them.
- I use cognitive behavioural techniques (CBT) to stop any negative thoughts cycles.
- I limit stressful situations and things I know trigger upset. I am confident in saying no if I feel at risk.
- I use relaxation if I start to panic. Diaphragmatic breathing is so important to calm the body down.
These strategies make me feel stronger, more empowered and make my decisions feel balanced.
Embracing your Sensitivity
“Rather than fearfully shutting down your sensitivity, dive in deeper into all the possible feeling. As you expand, keep only those who are not afraid of oceans.”
-Victoria Erickson
My sensitive nature has enabled me to see the world’s grey areas instead of only its black and white. I am empathetic to people, their lives and stories and never pre-judge. As a result, I campaign, write, lecture and guest speak on mental health issues to raise awareness and change attitudes. I see value in helping others, which motivates me to stay well.
My sensitivity to life enables me to feel my surroundings, moods and moments and creatively inspires. I love to write poetry and I use music to make me smile, socializing with the like-minded to lift my mood and make positive impact on my life. My room interior even reflects the true me, with bright artwork, photos and meaningful things. If I’ve been built to ‘absorb’, I want to optimize that with happy and inspirational stimuli.
As ever, it’s about knowing yourself, welcoming the good parts and learning to challenge the things you have identified as being more difficult. For all the hard times in my life I wouldn’t give up my sensitive nature – it’s made me who I am today.
