A wealth of research has been conducted to better understand the traits of highly sensitive people. These traits, present in roughly 15–20% of the population, are linked to heightened sensitivity (or responsivity) to both environmental and social stimuli. They are also associated with increased brain activity in areas related to awareness, memory, empathy, and self-other processing.

Studies confirm that these traits are innate, have a biological and genetic foundation, and are observed in over 100 other species, including dogs, birds, and fish. High sensitivity is not a disorder but rather a temperament trait that exists on a spectrum - with around 30% of people being highly sensitive, 40% moderately sensitive, and 30% low in sensitivity. It’s believed these traits serve an evolutionary function - highly sensitive individuals tend to be more attuned to danger and opportunity alike, which supports survival.

Beyond Neurobiological Explanations

Through both personal experience and my work as a coach, I’ve come to believe that sensitivity serves a purpose that extends beyond evolutionary adaptation. In other words, while high sensitivity may have developed as a survival strategy, it is also deeply connected to a sense of soul purpose. For many highly sensitive people, this includes an inner call to heal, support others, and engage with life on a deeper level.

It feels essential to explore sensitivity through a holistic lens, not limiting our understanding to genetics or neural circuitry. From a transpersonal perspective, I often reflect on the idea that we are spiritual beings having a human experience. Could it be that many highly sensitive individuals are drawn to a path of profound transformation and healing? Might sensitivity itself be an expression of our soul’s purpose in this lifetime?

The Role of Environment

The impact of high sensitivity can be greatly influenced by one’s environment. For instance, if a highly sensitive child grows up in a traumatic or invalidating environment, they may later experience anxiety, emotional overwhelm, or burnout. Sadly, many sensitive individuals come to see themselves as flawed or weak - believing their sensitivity is something to overcome or fix.

And yet, these very struggles often catalyse a powerful journey of inner growth. Emotional overwhelm and burnout can lead sensitive individuals toward deep healing and personal transformation. This mirrors the archetype of the ‘wounded healer’, those who have suffered deeply often become the guides, therapists, or spiritual teachers of the world. Such roles are not assumed lightly; they are shaped through hardship, resilience, and a commitment to personal evolution.

When Highly Sensitive People honour their nature rather than conforming to lifestyles that suppress it, they are more likely to access their full potential. As Elaine Aron wrote in her piece The Highly Sensitive Person and the Numinous, perhaps,

“we were created by the divine in order to bear witness to or guide others to the numinous.”

Is There a Purpose?

The idea that each of us is born with a specific purpose echoes the teachings of Carl Jung, who explored how encounters with the sacred can catalyse healing. In my own life and client work, I’ve witnessed how Highly Sensitive People are often drawn to spiritual experiences. They tend to have vivid dreams, strong intuitive abilities, and a deep connection to inner wisdom - qualities that resonate with Jung’s concept of the collective unconscious.

When Highly Sensitive People recognise and cultivate these gifts, they often become powerful guides, healers, or visionaries bringing insight and harmony into a world in need of both.

Honouring the Soul and the Sacred

By including soul, spirit, and sacred meaning in the way we understand high sensitivity, we open the door to a richer and more expansive view of what it means to be sensitive. Many Highly Sensitive People are on an accelerated journey of healing and transformation, what Jung described as individuation.

I believe this is partly because Highly Sensitive People process experience on a deeper level and are attuned to subtle shifts in their inner and outer environments. This depth often includes an awareness of the spiritual dimension of life, prompting a search for greater meaning and purpose.

This holistic approach doesn’t dismiss the importance of genetics or neuroscience - it expands upon them. Sensitivity is not fragility. It’s not a flaw or a pathology. When aligned with our deeper purpose, our sensitivity becomes a portal to authenticity, compassion, and creative contribution.

If you’re a Highly Sensitive Person, know that your traits are not only valid but valuable. You have profound gifts to offer this world.

Are you a Highly Sensitive Person who feels called to a spiritual path? Do you identify with the archetype of the wounded healer? Have your challenges as a sensitive soul led you on a journey of growth and healing? I’d love to hear your story.