Are you an empath? Signs that you (or your child) might be one

Have you ever felt like you were just too sensitive? Like the world is just too much sometimes? If so, you might be an empath. Empaths are people who feel things more deeply than others. They are extremely compassionate and often have a hard time watching other people suffer. If you think you might be an empath, read on for some signs that may help you confirm your suspicions.

1. You have a hard time watching the news or reading the paper. The negativity is just too much for you to handle

and you would rather stick your head in the sand than hear about all the terrible things happening in the world.

2. You are a natural born helper. You can’t stand to see anyone suffer and will do anything in your power to help them. This can often lead to people taking advantage of you because they know you will always be there for them no matter what.

3. You are extremely compassionate. You feel other people’s pain as if it were your own and often have a hard time understanding why someone would want to hurt another living creature.

4. You are highly intuitive and can often sense when something is wrong even if there is no evidence to support it.

5. You have a hard time saying no when someone asks for your help because you hate seeing people struggling and want to do anything you can to make their life easier.

6. Animals are naturally drawn to you and often seek you out when they need comfort.

7. Crying comes easy to you and you can become emotional in public.

8. You get overwhelmed easily in large crowds or loud places because it is difficult for you to filter out all of the energy around you.

9. You have a hard time sleeping at night because you can’t shut off your brain from replaying all of the day’s events over and over again in your head.

10. People are constantly telling you that you are “too sensitive” or “too emotional” but even though it can be difficult these qualities allow you to feel deeply and connect with and understand people in ways that doesn't make sense to many people.

If any (or all) of these signs sound familiar, chances are you might be an empath! Empaths are wonderful, caring people who feel things more deeply than others but sometimes have a hard time dealing with the pain of the world around them. If this sounds like you, try to surround yourself with positive people who will understand and support your empathic tendencies and make sure you practice self-care with strong boundaries!