Being an Empath

em·path

/ˈempaTH/

a person with the paranormal ability to apprehend the mental or emotional state of another individual.

Being an empath can be really difficult. Especially when the world around us feels like it’s crashing down, regardless which part of the country you are live in. Empaths tend to absorb others feelings, emotions, and/or physical symptoms. Empaths lead with intuition and feel highly sensitive.  

The top 10 traits of being an empath:

  1. Empaths are highly sensitive 

  2. Empaths absorb other people’s emotions

  3. Many empaths are introverted 

  4. Empaths are highly intuitive 

  5. Empaths need alone time

  6. Empaths can be overwhelmed in romantic/intimate relationships

  7. Empaths are targets for energy vampires

  8. Empaths become replenished in nature 

  9. Empaths have highly tuned senses

  10. Empaths have huge hearts but sometimes give too much 

Does this sound like you? You’re not alone. During this time, it might feel even more overwhelming than it has in the past. Prior, it might have been taking on the weight of those in our circle, but now you’re noticing absorbing people you have maybe never met. You’re feeling the weight of those around you.  

Being an empath means finding ways to protect your energy and what you’re sensitive to (ie., Strong boundaries and time management). I know sometimes it’s difficult to prioritize self, but it’s okay to fill your cup. You deserve too. You get to fill your cup and give from the overflow. What is in your cup, is YOUR cup. You are not responsible for other people’s happiness.

If you’re feeling especially drained, overwhelmed, or overly sensitive compared to what you’re accustomed to, it could be that you’re experiencing heightened emotions due to an increase in your intuitive empathic nature. At NCTP, we are staffed with a team that is here to help you gain understanding and clarification. Reach out to use today to get matched with one of our therapists.

Authored by: Chloe Orrvar, M.S.

Jess Mattson