Having studied the temperament trait of sensory processing sensitivity for the past eight years, more commonly known as being a highly sensitive person, it has over 30 years of scientific research that shows being HSP is not a diagnosis or a problem. Highly sensitive people are deep thinkers, emotionally responsive and empathetic, notice subtleties and can be prone to overstimulating environments. However once an HSP understand their trait, they can make conscious choices to support a temperament trait that is shared by 25% of the human population and is considered an evolutionary advantage. Being HSP does not equal being autistic, although a person can be both (my brother is a good example).

If someone is autistic, there is nothing to be ashamed of and if someone is HSP, there is nothing to be ashamed of. What is shameful is our society’s need to ‘pathologize’ neurodiversity instead of providing good research and support systems so each person can thrive. I am glad that you discovered this about yourself and it’s bringing you relief and understanding. However, stating that high functioning autism in females and HSP are the same thing without proof can be damaging to those who are HSP…