The recent loss of this powerhouse actor has left me heartbroken. While I never met Philip, I have a feeling he was an HSP (a Highly Sensitive Person). Ironically, his initials in reverse!
Most creative artists (and healers) are HSPs; roughly 20% of the population are, according to Dr. Elaine Aron, author of The Highly Sensitive Person: How to Survive When the World Overwhelms You. In my work with addictions, I would venture to say that fully 80% of addicts are HSPs. For highly sensitive people, drugs are an escape from the din that is just too overwhelming.
My fervent hope is that the silver lining in this recent tragedy is that those who are struggling with addictions will seek treatment, and learn how to manage their sensitivity with healthy adaptive responses to life’s stresses.
Thank you for the exquisite, masterful film legacy you left us, Phil. RIP…