Here are 5 common signs to know if someone is an EMPATH

You might have heard of ’empath’ before and wondered, what is an empath? This reminds me of a quote that goes this way: ‘Be there for others, but never leave yourself behind’ — Dodinsky

An empath is someone who’s good at sensing how others feel.

They can feel the same emotions as another person as if they’re experiencing them too.

Some people have a special skill of understanding others’ feelings, more than just empathy, which means understanding others’ feelings. They experience those feelings themselves.

“They often intuitively understand the feelings of others, sometimes even before the person has communicated them,” explains Hannah Mayderry, a licensed mental health counselor.

“This sensitivity allows empaths to connect deeply with people, but it can also be overwhelming at times.”

Scientists are unsure if real empaths, who can fully take on others’ emotions, exist despite many claims of this ability, according to Verywell Mind.

Researchers have found something called “mirror neurons” in the brain, which might help us mirror the emotions of people we interact with.

Some individuals might have more mirror neurons than others, hinting that empaths could be real.

How do you know if you are an empath?

Wondering if you’re an empath? Here are some common traits to look for:

• You are empathetic:

Some people are more empathetic than others. We’ve all encountered those who understand feelings well and those who seem completely unaware of others’ emotions.

• You care for others:

Empaths deeply feel others’ emotions and care greatly about people’s well-being. You strive to ensure others are happy, which may earn you a reputation for kindness.

However, your strong empathy can make you refuse others’ requests difficult.

• You have a great sense of intuition:

Empaths have strong intuition. You believe in your feelings and usually follow them when deciding things.

Because you are so good at sensing others’ emotions, you might notice small clues that can help you make choices.

• You are sensitive:

Empaths feel emotions deeply and notice many details in their surroundings.

This can make you more sensitive to sights, sounds, smells, and physical sensations that others might overlook.

Consequently, certain smells may affect you more, and you might be more easily distracted by noises.

Empaths are skilled at picking up on emotions but may also possess other heightened senses.

Sensory processing sensitivity (SPS) characterizes highly sensitive people (HSPs) who are extra sensitive to their environment and others’ emotions.

While an HSP can be an empath, not all empaths are HSPs.

• Connection with Nature and Animals:

Empaths often feel a strong connection to nature and animals, finding solace and peace in natural environments.

Pros and cons of being an empath

Empathy has positive and negative aspects, depending on how it’s used.

While it can foster compassion, it also has the potential for manipulation by exploiting others’ emotions.

Dark empaths misuse empathy for personal gain or manipulation, contrasting with regular empaths who are caring and understanding.

“Unlike empaths, who are generally compassionate and understanding, dark empaths can wield emotional insight maliciously, combining empathy with darker traits like narcissism,” Mayderry explains.

Pros of being an empath:

• You can help others feel better.
• You know when someone needs help.
• You can tell if someone will be good for you.
• You’re good at forming close, meaningful bonds with people.
• You might be great at jobs where you take care of others.

Cons of being an empath:

• You might often feel tired from emotions.
• You might struggle to find time alone.
• Some may feel like your ability to understand them is too personal.
• It’s hard for you to say “no.”
• Feeling Drained by Negativity:

Empaths may feel drained or exhausted after being around negative people or environments, as they absorb and internalize the negative energy.

How to manage empathy?

Empathy is beneficial for forming connections and maintaining relationships, but it can become overwhelming, leading to fatigue.

Managing empathy is essential for mental well-being without losing the ability to care, PsychCentral noted.

It involves creating a safe space for your emotions.

• Set boundaries

Boundaries indicate how you want to be treated and what you won’t tolerate.

Dr. Maya Weir, a psychologist, suggests that empaths may need extra effort to establish boundaries for their well-being.

• Evaluate relationships

Weir advises evaluating your relationships to ensure they’re balanced.

Being highly empathetic can be exhausting if you constantly give without receiving in return, draining your emotional energy.

Weir stresses the importance of empaths fostering relationships where both parties care for each other equally.

• Self-care is a must!

When overwhelmed by emotions, it’s crucial to take time to relax. Mayderry advises engaging in joyous activities, such as meditation or spending time outdoors.

Therapy is also recommended to learn how to manage empathy without feeling overwhelmed.

Here’s a video from a life coach, Barbara Heffernan, discussing “What is an empath?”