High sensitivity is a trait where individuals have an increased sensitivity to internal and external stimuli and their processing. This can manifest as a strong reaction to sounds, smells, images, or feelings, both from themselves and others. Highly sensitive persons may become overwhelmed by stimuli more easily, but also often report experiencing a rich and deep appreciation of life.
Week of Highly Sensitive Persons (HSP)
The Week of HSP is a Dutch initiative aimed at increasing awareness and understanding of high sensitivity. Various activities and lectures are organised where experts, coaches, and HSPs share their knowledge and experiences. More information about these events and how to participate can be found on the official (Dutch) website of the Week of HSP:
Research into mindfulness training for highly sensitive persons
If you would like to contribute directly to HSP research, we warmly invite you to participate in a study. Scientists at the Donders Institute are currently studying the effect of mindfulness training for highly sensitive persons. Mindfulness could help highly sensitive individuals better manage their sensitivity and stress, thereby improving their quality of life.
Participation involves undergoing mindfulness training (or not if you are placed in the control group) and completing questionnaires to evaluate the training's effect. This is a chance to contribute to scientific research while gaining more insight into high sensitivity. More information about the study, contact details, and how to get involved:
Learn More on the Donders Wonders Blog
Are you interested in the science of the brain, cognition, and behaviour? Visit the Donders Wonders blog, where PhD candidates write weekly in an accessible manner about their research. Be sure to read the articles on high sensitivity.