A Tough Time to be an Empath

Many of us know that feeling. We start reading today’s headlines with their litany of destruction, hatred, and tragedy. We feel almost ill. Our pulse raises and stomach tightens. We get depressed and anxious. Does this happen to you? If so, you might be an Empath. Here are 3 ways to tell…

You’re deeply affected by violence and cruelty – Even as a kid, I couldn’t handle anything dark or disturbing on television or the movies. I cried for days after Bambi’s mother died. As I grew older, I became not only affected by seeing a violent movie in the theater but by noticing who sat in the audience. Once, years ago, I went with my husband Randy to see the latest Martin Scorsese movie, which I was told wasn’t that violent. Right. 

A few rows ahead of us, sat a boy about 12-years-old with his father. I watched in horror as loud, violent scenes played out in front of this child. His father watched unflinchingly, eating his popcorn, as people were shot at close range. This little boy, no doubt wanting to please his dad, did the same. It almost disturbed me more than the movie, seeing a child being so desensitized. I ended up leaving and finding a Will Ferrell film in the same cineplex while Randy finished. 

You’re deeply affected by beauty – For a sensitive person, I’m not a big crier and yet beauty often brings me to tears, sometimes in unexpected ways. I always get misty-eyed in the theater, even if it’s a comedy or toe-tapping musical. There’s something moving about watching humans sing, dance, or recite lines onstage. I don’t understand why that makes me cry, but it does. 

Most sensitive people I know seek out beauty every day, whether it’s walking in nature or visiting art museums or hearing music. On Instagram, millions of people follow lovely, peaceful interiors, flowers, soft, adorable animals, or anything that brings us out of this world. As an empath, you might not only have a good eye for beauty but a great need for it as well. Few empaths I know can live without it.

You’re deeply affected by crowds and noise – As much as I’ve seen some great rock concerts in my life, after a few hours, I’ve had it. Too many people. Too much stimulus. Too much energy. I’ve finally given myself permission to seek quiet and solitude when needed. I used to fight this about myself and try and keep up with more extroverted friends and family, including my husband. But growing older, I learned I need quiet.

That’s why you find many empaths in libraries. We love the hushed quality of these places with their stacks of books and soft couches and chairs. There’s space to think and daydream and observe. A walk through nature with just the sound of birds and rustle of trees can also be a tonic. Empaths must give themselves permission for solitude and privacy when needed. 

Today, I’m heartened to see how many empaths (and I believe there are many and growing in number) are deeply pained by the violence and oppression that has always dominated our world. At this point in the planet’s history, I can’t think of any greater hope than our future generations. 

Destruction, hatred, and tragedy will never be wiped out. But more and more, with the help of empaths, perhaps they can be lessened.     

 

 

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