Extremely sensitive: empaths might feel offended easily. ‘“Affected by someone’s behavior:’” empaths often take on the behaviors from other people. Affected by others’ emotions: empaths care so much about other people, that they can’t help but to feel the weight of others’ struggles. Intuitive: empaths are keyed into their others’ feelings, so they notice shifts in energy that others might not. Easily overwhelmed: because empaths feel emotions so deeply, strong negative (or positive!) interactions leave them feeling overloaded. Always giving: an empath cares a ton for other people, so they’re always doing their best to lend a helping hand.
A friend who seems quiet or not quite like themselves. Even if this friend hasn’t said anything wrong, an empath might sense their pain. A major sad event in someone’s life. If an empath learns that their brother lost a job, an empath might feel extremely sad for them.
People might assume that this friend is always willing to help, even when it’s inconvenient for the empath. Someone may vent for hours about a problem without asking about the empath’s life and feelings. Oftentimes, empaths have trouble setting boundaries. But if they do manage to, a selfish person might not take those boundaries seriously.
If a friend asks an empath for comfort, but at the end of the conversation they still seem upset, the empath might feel like a failure. If someone in an empath’s circle is looking for a job, and the empath tries to help (but nothing works), they may feel triggered.
Spending the entire day with their partner might leave an empath feeling frustrated. Constant touching (hugs, cuddles, etc. ) might be too much for an empath. If someone constantly engages an empath in emotional intimacy (maybe with deep, heartfelt conversations) this could leave the empath feeling overwhelmed
“It’s not that big of a deal, don’t worry. ” “It’s not your problem, just stop thinking about it. ” “I don’t get why you feel upset about that, it’s not your issue. ”
News and world events can feel upsetting Documentaries on sad historical events A story about someone the empath doesn’t actually know themselves can also be an emotional trigger
If there’s a pattern in your relationship that threatens your inner peace, make note of it. Clearly explain your boundary to this person: “I can accept this behavior. I’m setting a boundary—you can’t keep lying to me. ” Finally, enforce the boundary: “I asked you not to lie anymore, and you’re falling into the same patterns. This isn’t okay. I need time away. ”
Meditate. Meditation can teach you to observe and control your thoughts and feelings. To get started for free, try insight timer. Take deep breaths. Breathwork can teach you to be more present in the current moment. Therapy. Talk through your patterns with a professional, and you’ll notice them more easily in the future. Try BetterHelp. Journal about your feelings throughout the day. Make a note when you feel drained, stressed, grateful, or relaxed.
If someone makes you feel awesome, spend more time with them. Even better, let them know how you feel. That way, you’re strengthening a healthy relationship! Think deeply about toxic relationships from your past. In the future, these observations can help you spot other harmful relationships.
Things that leave you feeling relaxed and at peace (like yoga, walking, or playing games) Things that you’re passionate about (like art, DIY projects, or learning new skills) Nothing! Trust that by spending time alone, you’re already achieving something worthwhile.
Challenging negative self-talk. If you think: “I should be doing more for them. ” Change the narrative: “I’ve done what I can, and I’m doing my best. ” Write a letter to yourself. Focus on not assigning blame, just processing your own feelings. Ask yourself if you’d be this hard on another friend. If the answer is no (and it probably is!) remember that you deserve the same compassion. Treat yourself when you’re feeling low. Buy yourself something you love or do something you enjoy. And when you do, remind yourself that you deserve it! Try to actively forgive yourself for mistakes. Do you have a regret that still weighs on your today? Talk it through with a friend—by the end of the conversation, make it your goal to forgive yourself.
