The Symbol for the Highly Sensitive Person
Discover the unique story behind the creation of the ‘Highly Sensitive Person Symbol’ and its meaning.
Note from the Creator of the HSP Symbol
For 22 years, I (Anne-Kathrin) didn’t have a word for what I was feeling. I just knew I felt things more — sounds, light, fragrances, moods, other people’s emotions, my own. I thought something was wrong with me. Then I discovered I’m a highly sensitive person, and for the first time in my life, I felt something settle inside me. There wasn’t anything wrong with me after all. There were more of us out there.
I wanted a way to hold onto that feeling — something I’d see every day and remember: this is who I am, and it’s not a flaw. A tattoo felt right. But when I went looking for a symbol that represented highly sensitive people, I couldn’t find one. So I grabbed a notebook and a pencil and started drawing it myself.
After a few versions, I landed on something simple that felt true. I shared it in an HSP community, half-expecting it to land quietly. Instead, people were moved by it. That response told me something I hadn’t fully realized yet: this symbol could do more than sit on my skin. It could help other sensitive people feel less alone, the way discovering my own sensitivity had helped me.
That spark didn’t let go. My partner Riny and I sat down and started talking about what we could build around it — something that could reach more people, spread real awareness, and help others recognize their sensitivity as a strength instead of something to hide. That conversation became HiSensitives.
Years later, I still wear the HSP symbol with pride, and it still means exactly what it did the day I drew it. What moves me most is hearing from other sensitive people who’ve found the same comfort in it that I did — a small reminder that their sensitivity was never something to fix. I’m endlessly grateful I set out on this road.
I am 34 now, and I still feel that same gratitude every time I think back to where this started. What began as a way to make peace with my own sensitivity turned into something so much bigger than I ever expected.
The Meaning of the HSP Symbol
Curious what the HSP symbol stands for? Below, Anne-Kathrin explains the idea behind the design.
The letters H, S & P
“When I began designing the symbol, I initially desired to include the letters H, S, & P – which stand for ‘highly sensitive person’. If you look carefully, you can see how all the letters are incorporated in the design.”
The tiny dot
“While designing, I wanted to symbolize how the trait is a part of me that I want to embrace. A trait that I am proud of. Therefore, I added a little dot at the bottom of the P. It serves as an exclamation mark… Here I am!!! And if you turn it around, it visualizes the ‘I’ as in part of my identity.”
Community
“While I initially designed the symbol for myself as a visualization of acceptation of and identification with the trait, it turned out to be so much more than that. Now it serves as a symbol for a community to connect with each other. To feel empowered. To embrace their unique gifts.
“Be as unique as a snowflake. Embrace all your dimensions.”
– Viola Shipman
HSP Symbol Shop
Upon request by many of you, we have initiated a unique HSP symbol shop, where you can discover different items with the HSP symbol on them. We donate 5% of all our profit to the organization One Tree Planted. Discover our unique items for highly sensitive people below.
Tote bag
Looking for a simple way to express your love for the HSP trait? We created this minimalistic tote bag design. Purchase it for yourself or gift it to one of your highly sensitive friends!
HSP mug
For the coffee- and tea lovers out there, we’ve created an HSP symbol mug. Express your pride for your HSP trait every day whilst taking a sip of your favorite beverage.
Frequently asked questions about the highly sensitive person symbol
Can I use the symbol for personal purposes?
If you’d like to use the symbol for personal purposes – like getting it tattoed or using it in your private artwork – feel free to use it without our permission. We encourage you to send us pictures of your creations and are happy to share them on our social media channels!
Can I use the HSP symbol for commercial purposes?
If you’d like to use the symbol commercially, please contact us at contact@hisensitives.com to discuss a potential collaboration. We love to work together with creative businesses. Using the symbol commercially without our written permission is prohibited.
When was the HSP symbol created?
The HSP symbol was created in June 2018 by Anne-Kathrin Walter.
Discover artwork with the HSP symbol created by other highly sensitive people:
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