ALL EMPATHS... HELP!?

I have always been extremly sensitive and can tell what people are feeling. I've always felt like i'm different like have something special. I don't think i absorb the emotions that much but lately i have been feeling down and not myself. I have heard there are special stones to help with empathy. I would like to get back to my normal self... (from the feeling down a lot it sucks) I just want some help with this empathy thing. My dad is one but its hard to talk about everything with him. help! P.S. I have been more sensitive then usual and i just got an opal ring. Maybe that has something to do with it!