Could Your Sensitivity Be Affecting Your Mental Health? Study Finds Out - Video

A major meta-analysis of 33 studies, published in Clinical Psychological Science, has found that highly sensitive individuals are significantly more prone to depression and anxiety than those with lower sensitivity. The analysis is the first of its kind to examine the link between sensitivity—a personality trait reflecting how strongly people react to stimuli like bright lights, subtle changes, or others' moods—and common mental health issues.

Researchers found a consistent, positive relationship across diverse populations, highlighting that sensitivity plays a key role in emotional well-being. Unlike neuroticism, which has long been the focus in mental health research, sensitivity is often overlooked in both clinical practice and psychological studies.

The study suggests that highly sensitive individuals may benefit more from targeted treatment strategies like mindfulness and applied relaxation, which can also help prevent relapse. It urges clinicians to consider sensitivity levels when designing treatment plans, offering a more personalized approach to mental health care.

Michael Pluess, Professor in Developmental Psychology at the University of Surrey and Visiting Professor at Queen Mary University of London, said: “This is the first meta-analysis providing robust evidence that highly sensitive people are more prone to common mental health problems. However, it is important to remember that highly sensitive people are also more responsive to positive experiences, including psychological treatment. Our results provide further evidence that sensitive people are more affected by both negative and positive experiences and that the quality of their environment is particularly important for their well-being.”

Reference: Falkenstein, T., Sartori, L., Malanchini, M., Hadfield, K., & Pluess, M. (2025). The Relationship Between Environmental Sensitivity and Common Mental-Health Problems in Adolescents and Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Clinical Psychological Science, 0(0). https://doi.org/10.1177/21677026251348428