The term empath was first used in Scottish writer GT Macintosh’s 1956 title “Empath,” a story about sympathetic supernatural beings. Since then, the term has spread and is now prevalent in mental health communities and forums, and many people have followed suit who are beginning to recognize empathy. But what is the meaning of sympathy?
Discover the meaning of true empathy
Simply put, empaths have a higher level of empathy than the average individual. They are sensitive or attuned to the feelings and emotions of others. Harmony can include sensitivity to body language and understanding a person’s physical cues or feelings through the way they communicate or act.
Because of their heightened sensitivity, empaths absorb the feelings of those around them. While they have personal feelings, empaths tend to focus on what others feel and appreciate and have a higher connection with the people around them than with themselves. They are also known to have a higher intuition.
Since they are more sensitive, empaths hate conflict and tend to isolate themselves. They may find it difficult to set boundaries or have other social problems due to their high sensitivity. While these traits are a feature of empathy, they are not foolproof.
With experience, empaths can learn to control their emotions and it may be easier to deal with sensitivity. However, there is no way to stop caring or feeling for them. Seeing a person in pain becomes distressing for a person with increased empathy, who is likely to try to help the person who is suffering.
Read more: Why are friends important to your mental health?
Empaths in real life
As friends, empaths can discover your concerns and offer solutions or break into your situation.
They have unique perspectives that make their personal bond invaluable. Through their vision, they can offer growth and maturity to others. Many people are aware of this and help sympathizers when they encounter serious problems. Because they tend to be isolated, avoid large crowds and are overwhelmed by conflict, empaths can appear to be introverted or shy.
They can have a strange connection to nature but may be overwhelmed by the closeness and intimacy in relationships. For empaths, maintaining a sense of distance or separation can be a means of self-protection, as they are by nature very sensitive to others. Learning to value themselves, find their core values, or develop a vision of life can help empaths value themselves and increase their harmony with themselves. If you or someone you know feels overwhelmed by their affective traits, it is advisable to opt for therapy to help cope with the situation.
Read more: 10 reasons why kindness is so important
conclusion
Empaths are people who are more sensitive to others. They can have a high intuition, be in harmony with others, and hate conflict. The meaning of empaths is often misrepresented as kindness or compassion for people, but empathy is a natural thing, not cultivated through practice or actions. They are loyal, supportive, insightful and advise friends and loved ones in relationships. However, being an empath is often confusing or stressful. To better navigate your situation, treatment is always an option. On that note, here is a list of Top Five Affordable Online Therapy Platforms.
For more information about empathy, empathy, and other terms related to mental health, subscribe to Your mental health.
Discussion about this post