Highly Sensitive People and Jobs

Do you like your job? How do you feel going to work?

Are you satisfied with your answers to these questions?

Obviously, there can be a range of responses. It's complicated. People spend most of their time/lives at work, so it would be nice to at least be okay with their job. Work allows us to make money, in turn making it possible to live our lives. Some have limited options given their background, i.e., people born into a working-class family and/or not having access to education. They may have to remain working at difficult jobs to survive. In contrast, others may have more options available to them and if they are dissatisfied, they have the option to change jobs. No matter which situation you are in, the decision to leave a job is never easy.

When it comes to highly sensitive people (HSP), certain work environments can be especially difficult. Often, highly sensitive people may struggle with “normal” workplaces, including open concept offices, since HSPs are more easily overwhelmed by overstimulation. Finding a job as a HSP can be challenging since many workplaces are still unaccommodating towards those with different needs. Many still “tough it out” through significant mental health struggles, which may be due to pressure to conform to corporate culture and/or may be ingrained from family/cultural values. This focus on productivity and having hard work ethic may offer companies profit, but at the cost of worsening mental health challenges such as burnout.

There are jobs more suited for HSPs while others are more ill-suited for HSPs. It is not to say the HSP will not be great at their job. It is likely the sustainability at those company may be limited given the inflexibility towards folxs who are sensitive. It also tends to mean HSPs need to more strongly advocate for their needs, including setting firm, healthy boundaries, to help manage their overwhelm.

Ideal Jobs for HSPs:

These jobs are meaningful, supportive, detail-oriented, and allows for deep processing. It is normal for HSPs to want a career that means more than a paycheck. Some find success in creating their own work environment from free-lancers to owning their own businesses, so they have the flexibility as well as the ability to work and take care of their needs.

Below is not a comprehensive list:

• Creative Fields

  • Artist

  • Graphic Designer

  • Writer

  • Blogger

  • Florist

  • Museum/Art curator

  • Photographer

  • Video Editor

• Detail-Oriented Fields

  • Architect

  • Editor

  • Librarian

  • Scientist/Researcher

  • Mechanic

  • Pet grooming

• Teaching Fields

  • Professor

  • Tutor

• Healthcare Fields (including nurses, medical doctors, therapists of any kind)

o   Monitoring caregiver stress/burnout while doing this work is incredibly important

Ill-Fitting Jobs for HSPs:

These jobs tend to be more sales or profit-driven. In these jobs, there can be confrontation involved and/or be overstimulating/loud. Constantly having face time with people can be draining for HSPs, especially HSPs who are also introverted.

Below are examples of such jobs:

·      Sales associate

·      Bartender/Waiter

·      Chef

·      Police/Firefighter

·      Emergency room workers

·      Public Relations

·      Attorney

·      Flight Attendant

What are your thoughts? Are you in a job well-suited for you and your mental health? Is the job worth your mental health? It may take a lot of consideration before leaving a job ill-suited for you, but it may make all the difference in your quality of life. No one can answer these questions but you since you will have to live your life… the good, the bad, and the ugly. If you do not take care of you, who will? There is only one you in this world.

If you are questioning your job’s role in your mental health and would like mental health support, feel free to contact us here.

Stay tuned. The next topic is Breathing.

Written by Elena Duong, Psy.D.

Edited by Susanna La, Ph.D.