How HSPs Can Guide Humanity Through Alcohol and Addiction

In this blog post, we explore the intersection of high sensitivity and addiction. A team of HSP coaches, Sarah Connelly, Rikke Hartmann-Bossen, Elisha May and Alexander Hohmann, share their insights and personal experiences on this important topic.

Understanding High Sensitivity and Addiction

Sarah Connelly, an HSP coach, begins the conversation by discussing her journey. Sarah shares how she didn’t realise she was an HSP until after she had quit alcohol. Initially, she used alcohol for typical reasons like celebrations and relaxation, but her consumption increased over time, leading to a problematic relationship with alcohol. Traumatic events further complicated her situation.

HSP Sensation Seeking and Alcohol

The conversation then shifts to Elisha May, who explores her experience as someone with high sensory needs. She describes how the sensation-seeking aspect of her high sensitivity led her to enjoy the initial buzz of alcohol. However, she also experienced severe hangovers, anxiety, and emotional turmoil the day after drinking. Elisha’s turning point was the sudden death of her brother, which pushed her into a full-blown alcohol problem.

The Role of Sensitivity and Chemical Sensitivity

The discussion further explores the sensitivity of HSPs, not only to emotional experiences but also to chemicals in substances like alcohol. The immediate effects of substances on HSPs are more pronounced, making the value they place on these substances higher. High sensitivity can make individuals more susceptible to addiction and less able to regulate their intake of such substances.

Substances as Coping Mechanisms

The use of substances as coping mechanisms for anxiety, stress, or depression is a common theme among HSPs. Many turn to substances to navigate situations where they feel overwhelmed, anxious, or lacking in confidence. It’s a way to numb discomfort and find a sense of ease. Riki brings up one of her experiences with one of her clients who didn’t realise they were highly sensitive and were using alcohol and pills to cope with daily tasks. However, before they realised their HSP traits, they had the motion in their head that they were ‘no one’ if they were sober and they couldn’t do their job without the substances. When Riki guided them and helped them see who they indeed were without the alcohol and pills

Changing Circumstances and Environments

The conversation underscores the importance of effectively changing one’s circumstances and environment to manage high sensitivity. Moving away from relationships or situations that don’t align with one’s true self can reduce the need for substances as a coping mechanism. Creating a life in alignment with one’s values and sensitivities can lead to healthier and more rewarding experiences.

The Rewarding System and Human Connection

Alex introduces the concept of the reward system, which plays a significant role in addiction. He discusses the idea that a lack of human connection can contribute to addictive behaviours. Rebuilding human connections and feeling connected to something greater than oneself can be a powerful way to combat addiction and foster a sense of belonging.

Finding Connection in Nature and Beyond

The conversation concludes with an example of how nature and achieving personal goals, like reaching the summit of a mountain, can provide a profound sense of connection and reduce the risk of addiction. When individuals feel connected to something beyond themselves, they are less likely to rely on substances to fill that void.

Asking for help is OK.

HSPs need to recognise that they are not alone in their struggles and that seeking help for a drinking problem is a courageous and necessary step towards healing. Highly sensitive individuals can find understanding, guidance, and strategies tailored to their unique needs by reaching out to support networks, therapists, or addiction specialists. Acknowledging the issue and seeking help not only aids in managing their drinking but also enables them to embrace their sensitivity as a strength rather than a vulnerability in their journey towards recovery and well-being.

We hope this was insightful for our HSP readers who may be struggling at this moment in time and that you find the courage to ask for help and be your true self. 

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