I'm so glad you bumped this thread! I've recently realized I'm an empath and everything makes so much sense now. I just thought I was "sensitive". I've learned it's a bit more than that. I've been reading a book called "Become the Most Important Person in the Room" by Rose Rosetree. I'm about halfway finished with it and I hope it helps me to be able to cope with large crowds and unexpected negative interactions. I've also looked into "grounding" and meditation and trying to stay in the present moment. I'm also trying visualization in order to shield myself from other people's feelings. Good luck with your journey.