Environmental Sensitivity: A Transdiagnostic Trait?
Psychology Today
by Noam Shpancer Ph.D.February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Environmental sensitivity (ES) is a distinct personality trait characterized by heightened reactivity to physical, emotional, and social stimuli. This trait, which has been studied since the mid-1990s, can manifest in three ways: ease of excitation (feeling overwhelmed by internal or external stimuli), low sensory threshold (being easily aroused by external stimuli), and aesthetic sensitivity (deep appreciation for beauty and art). Research increasingly links ES to mental health outcomes, with a recent meta-analysis finding strong correlations between high environmental sensitivity and conditions like depression, anxiety, OCD, and PTSD.
The study, conducted by psychologist Tom Falkenstein and colleagues, analyzed data from 33 studies across 15 countries, including Japan, the U.S., Iran, and Germany. With a combined sample of over 12,000 participants (62.5% female, average age 25), the meta-analysis revealed that individuals with high ES are more vulnerable to mental health challenges but also more likely to thrive in supportive environments. This dual nature highlights ES as a transdiagnostic trait, meaning it underlies multiple mental health conditions rather than being specific to one disorder.
Understanding ES matters because traditional mental health diagnoses often treat conditions as separate and distinct, ignoring shared vulnerabilities like sensitivity. A transdiagnostic approach could revolutionize treatment by addressing these underlying traits, offering more personalized care for individuals with high ES. While this trait makes people susceptible to negative outcomes in adverse environments, it also positions them to benefit from positive, nurturing settings.
For readers interested in mental health and personal well-being, recognizing the role of environmental sensitivity can empower individuals to better manage their reactions to stress and seek out supportive environments. This knowledge not only advances our understanding of mental health but also
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Originally published on Psychology Today on 2/25/2026