... and thriving at university

University life is an exciting yet challenging journey, especially when living in university halls. For some students, the bustling environment, frequent social interactions, and academic pressures can feel overwhelming. If you often find yourself more affected by these stimuli than your peers, you might be a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP). Understanding this trait can help you navigate university life more effectively and find strategies to thrive.

Identifying a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP)

Highly Sensitive Persons have a heightened sensitivity to environmental and social stimuli. Here are some signs that you might be an HSP:

1. Deep Processing: You often think deeply about information, reflecting on experiences and considering the implications of decisions more thoroughly than others.
2. Emotional Reactivity: You experience emotions intensely, whether they’re positive or negative. You might cry easily or feel overwhelmed by others’ emotions.
3. Sensitivity to Stimuli: Loud noises, strong smells, and chaotic environments can be particularly distressing for you.
4. Overstimulation: You may feel easily overwhelmed by busy schedules or crowded places, needing time to retreat and recharge.
5. High Empathy: You are very aware of other people’s emotions and can easily sense their moods, sometimes absorbing their feelings as your own.

If you resonate with these characteristics, you might be an HSP. This awareness can empower you to make choices that support your well-being and academic success.

Tips for Thriving as an HSP in University Halls

Create a Sanctuary Space:

• Personalise Your Room: Make your room a cozy retreat where you can relax. Use calming colours, soft lighting, and comfortable furnishings to create a peaceful environment.
• Quiet Hours: Invest in noise-canceling headphones or earplugs to manage noise levels and ensure you get restful sleep.

Manage Your Schedule:

• Prioritise Rest: Balance your social and academic commitments with enough downtime. It’s okay to say no to social events if you need to recharge.
• Plan Ahead: Use planners or digital calendars to organise your tasks. Breaking down larger assignments into smaller tasks can make them more manageable and reduce stress.

Set Boundaries:

• Communicate Needs: Be open with your roommates about your need for quiet time and personal space. Establishing clear boundaries can help prevent misunderstandings.
• Limit Social Media: Constant notifications and online interactions can be overwhelming. Set specific times to check social media to avoid overstimulation.

Find Support:

• Join Groups: Seek out clubs or societies that match your interests. Connecting with like-minded individuals can provide a sense of community without overwhelming social demands.
• Counselling Services: Take advantage of university counselling services. They can offer strategies for managing stress and navigating university life as an HSP.

Healthy Lifestyle:

• Nutrition and Exercise: Eat balanced meals and engage in regular physical activity. Exercise can be a great way to release built-up stress and boost your mood.
• Mindfulness Practices: Incorporate mindfulness techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga into your routine to stay grounded and calm.

Academic Strategies:

• Quiet Study Spaces: Find quiet places like libraries or study rooms where you can focus without distractions.
• Time Management: Break study sessions into manageable chunks with regular breaks to prevent burnout.

Conclusion

Being a Highly Sensitive Person in university halls can be challenging, but with the right strategies, you can thrive and make the most of your university experience. By creating a supportive environment, managing your schedule effectively, and seeking out the right resources, you can navigate the bustling university life while taking care of your unique needs. Remember, your sensitivity is a strength that, when harnessed properly, can lead to deep connections, insightful perspectives, and a fulfilling university journey.

Book recommendations

“The Highly Sensitive Person: How to Thrive When the World Overwhelms You” by Elaine N. Aron (1996)

• This seminal book by Elaine N. Aron, who coined the term ‘Highly Sensitive Person’, provides a comprehensive introduction to the trait of high sensitivity. It includes self-assessment tests, coping strategies, and advice on how to better manage work and personal relationships.

“The Highly Sensitive Person’s Survival Guide: Essential Skills for Living Well in an Overstimulating World” by Ted Zeff (2004)

• Dr. Ted Zeff offers practical advice on managing daily stressors and environmental stimuli that can be overwhelming for HSPs. His book includes tips on how to recalibrate one’s life to reduce the intrusion of overly stimulating situations.

“The Highly Sensitive Person in Love: Understanding and Managing Relationships When the World Overwhelms You” by Elaine N. Aron (2001)

• Also by Elaine N. Aron, this book focuses on how high sensitivity affects relationships. It discusses how HSPs can manage their sensitivities to build healthier, more fulfilling relationships.