Giftedness means that you have a high level of intelligence and often grasp new information quickly.

It is not just about being able to learn well. Giftedness can also influence how you experience the world, how you feel and how you interact with others.

Giftedness is not an illness or a disorder. It is a characteristic. Some people experience mainly benefits. Others encounter difficulties.

Strengths may include: the ability to spot connections quickly, creative thinking, a keen sense of curiosity, perseverance and a strong sense of justice.

Giftedness is a trait you are born with. Innate ability plays an important role in this. Intelligence is partly hereditary. That is why giftedness sometimes runs in families.

Symptoms do not arise from giftedness itself. They often arise because the environment is not well suited to the individual. This can happen, for example, due to:

not challenging enough;
little understanding from those around them;
insufficient rest or recovery;
an environment that does not suit your pace or way of thinking;
prolonged boredom or overstimulation.

When the environment is not well suited, this can lead to stress, uncertainty, frustration or underperformance.

Giftedness can manifest itself in various ways. For example, you may notice that:

you think quickly and spot connections quickly;
you set high standards for yourself;
you think a lot or worry;
you find it difficult to connect with others;
you are sensitive to stimuli or emotions;
you are underperforming at school, university or work.

In children, giftedness can also manifest itself in asking lots of questions, boredom, frustration or difficulty with repetition.

A healthy lifestyle can help you feel more calm and balanced. This can be particularly helpful if you tend to overthink things, set high standards for yourself, or are prone to stress and overstimulation.

For example, you could:

Ensuring sufficient sleep;
Regular exercise;
Eating healthily and regularly;
Allowing sufficient time for relaxation and recovery;
Pay attention to striking a good balance between exertion and relaxation.

Exercise can help you feel more at peace in your mind and body. It can also have a positive effect on your mood, energy levels and sleep. The effect is supportive and varies from person to person.

Do you find it difficult to develop or maintain these habits on your own? If so, our lifestyle coaches can support you with this.

Giftedness often brings with it certain qualities, but can also present challenges. Gaining a better understanding of your own needs and characteristics can help you maintain a better balance.

For example, you could:

Pay attention to what gives you energy and what drains your energy;
Ensuring there are sufficient challenges in work, study or leisure;
Seek contact with people who understand you or have had similar experiences;
Set realistic expectations for yourself;
Taking time for relaxation and recovery;
Learning to recognise when you are becoming overstimulated or overwhelmed;
Making space for interests, curiosity and creativity;
Seek support if you’re struggling with work, study or relationships.

Giftedness does not always require treatment. However, treatment can help if you experience difficulties related to giftedness or if you find yourself struggling in everyday life.

The treatment can help with:

perfectionism;
fear of failure or insecurity;
overstimulation;
gloom or tension;
difficulty in relating to others;
high expectations of yourself;
dealing with emotions and boundaries.

Our psychologists or occupational therapists We will work with you to identify your needs and determine which support best suits you. The treatment can help you gain a better understanding of yourself and better align with your own needs and qualities.

When working with children, we often involve parents or carers as well. Together, we look at how the environment at home and at school can be better adapted.

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