I’d like to echo the sentiments of previous posters. Your son is fortunate to have you as a sympathetic/understanding sounding board (Go mom!). I had similar feelings/thoughts as your son when I was younger. I also remember being scared of the intensity of my feelings as a child (particularly rage). As an adult I still have trouble compartmentalizing my “empathy.” While I understand the difference between real/imaginary, I have trouble not letting my feelings (when I imagine myself as someone else … as your son has described) impact the rest of my day. I also have trouble turning sad thoughts off (again when I’m imagining how someone else may be feeling). I attempt to filter “bad thing” that I read or hear about. I’m also very sensitive to smell. I’m not sure if this helps at all. Your story made me reflective.
Thanks Wyatt. It's interesting that you mention the sensitivity to smell. My son and I are both that way. It drives my husband crazy! I can also relate to empathizing too much with movies; I just wasn't sure if that's what my son was doing or if there was more to it. I really think that's the crux of the situation after talking wiht him some more. I used to love movies that evoked extreme emotion; I felt that it helped me learn something about myself. After experienceing some significant tragedy in my own life, I've decided I've had enough sadness. If I, inadvertantly, watch something sad now I can honestly cry for hours afterward because the feelings are stuck in my head! I avoid sad movies and books now; I've had enough real sadness for a lifetime, thank you very much!
Again, thanks for your response. It helps me to understand my ds even better.
