why am i so sensitive

Being sensitive can stem from several factors including having a more sensitive central nervous system, past traumatic experiences, genetics, and current stress or anxiety. Approximately 20-30% of people are considered highly sensitive, meaning they process stimuli more deeply and respond more intensely to emotional, social, or physical stimuli. This trait is known as sensory processing sensitivity and is not a disorder but a personality characteristic. Sensitivity can be heightened by life experiences such as trauma or ongoing stress, making emotional reactions more intense and causing one to feel more easily overwhelmed by stimuli in their environment. Additionally, genetics may predispose some individuals to higher sensitivity levels, and this trait has been observed in many species beyond humans. Sensitivity means being more attuned to subtle factors in surroundings, which can be both a challenge and an advantage in perceiving positive and negative aspects of life.