04/22/2026
Genuine question for this community π
Do you find yourself absorbing the emotions of people around you β even strangers?
If a friend is anxious, you become anxious.
If the room is tense, your whole body feels it. If someone you love is hurting, you can't just feel bad for them β you feel it WITH them.
That's hyper empathy. And it's not a flaw. It's how your nervous system is wired.
My latest blog post breaks down exactly what it is, the hidden costs of carrying it unmanaged, and how to start creating space for your own emotions again.
https://www.melissaschwartz.com/highly-sensitive-people/hyper-empathy/
π¬ How do you handle absorbing other people's emotions? I'd love to hear what works for you.
Discover what hyper empathy is, the signs you might have it, and how to support your well-being as a highly sensitive, empathic person.