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How to Deal With Your Introverted or Highly Sensitive Friend
A guide for friends of those who are more inward
Before diving into this guide, I want to briefly explain the differences between an introvert, an HSP, and those who are labeled “shy”- these terms are similar yet different.
First, an introvert is someone who prefers calm, non-arousing environments. It can be said that introverts are “social” but they retain more energy from alone time.
Second, an HSP(Highly Sensitive Person) tends to be an introvert because we prefer calm environments, yet there is another component. According to Dr. Elaine N. Aron, HSP or not, NO ONE wants to be overly bored or overly stimulated. There is one caveat here with HSPs — we reflect more on everything, this makes us “feel more” and avoid situations that causes fear and overstimulation because we know what can happen.
Third and finally, are those simply labeled as shy. Just like an HSP can be introverted, many HSPs and introverts are labeled as shy. Shy is someone who avoids social situations because of timidity, usually.
Now that we have some understanding of these words, let’s see how you can be a great friend to those who are not as “out” going as you.
