Intensity, concentration, persistence, sensitivity, and idealism are traits frequently associated with high intelligence, intellectual ability, and special talents. While these qualities are valuable and, in fact, inalienable for gifted individuals, they can be misunderstood by others and result in difficulties–especially in environments that are mismatched to emotional and intellectual needs. Because giftedness is not always taken into account by helping professionals, adults and children alike are at risk for misdiagnosis when they seek assistance.

Clinicans who have worked extensively with gifted individuals have come to understand that the unusual perceptual abilities of the gifted result in sensitivity and reactivity to the environment. Feelings, experiences, and reactions often far exceed what might be considered typical or average. The term “overexcitablity” is used to describe this kind of intensity. Overexcitablities (OEs) span a wide range of experience and are evident in the areas of creativity and imagination, emotion, physical activity, the senses, and in the intellectual life of gifted individuals. Examples include intense curiosity and incessant probing questions, focus on ethical concerns and fairness, daydreaming and absorption in elaborate imaginative worlds, strong emotional attachments and deep empathy, fervent enthusiasm and intense physical activity, and heightened sensitivity to odors, textures, and noise.

Misunderstanding of these characteristics can lead to misdiagnosis and inappropriate intervention for gifted children and adults. ADD/ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, Asperger’s Disorder are common misdiagnoses. Bipolar Disorder, in particular, has been diagnosed and medicated in children with detrimental effect. This is not to say that gifted individuals may not also suffer from one of these disorders, but diagnosis must be made with due care and consideration of the impact of environment on traits associated with high intelligence and sensitivity.

If you experience loneliness or feel misunderstood because of deep and complex thoughts, a passion for justice, or intense feelings and reactions, learning more about giftedness may be helpful for you. Discouragement about the human condition or frustration with achieving one’s own potential are also feelings that many gifted individuals experience frequently. Check out Supporting the Emotional Needs of the Gifted (SENG) at www.sengifted.org for a wealth of helpful online materials.

In my work with gifted individuals, the focus is on self-understanding–acknowledging and honoring unique capabilities and gifts. We will identify emotional and intellectual needs and problem solve better ways of meeting those needs. Clients who have experienced persistent discouragement and depression–or fearfulness and social anxiety–report that counseling has helped shift their perspective to a more satisfying and productive approach to life.