Everyone is different, but whether you’re a talkative, sociable, and assertive extrovert or have more introverted personality traits like preferring calmness with little socialization, particularly outside a smaller group of loved ones, you can experience mental health issues.
But are introverts more prone to mental illness, depression, and other mental health concerns? The short answer is that it depends, but MindBar is here to answer this question with plenty of information to be happy no matter whether you have an introvert or extravert personality.
Keep reading to examine introvert vs. extraversion definition, see how both personalities influence behavior and mood, and how types of introverts and extroverts handle mental health and experience things like anxiety, loneliness, and depression differently.
What is Extraversion vs. Introversion?
You probably have some idea of the extroversion definition and introvert meaning because they are commonly used in everyday conversation. However, sometimes they are used incorrectly. You may have also noticed that there are different spellings, but don’t worry because both extroversion and extraversion meanings are the same.
An introvert isn’t necessarily someone who is shy or socially inept. Instead, they simply prefer calm environments and recharge their energy levels with solitude. About 25-40% of the population are introverted.
On the other hand, extroverts love social interaction and feel energized being around other people. They often dislike solitude and they feel their best when they can talk to others, socialize, and share experiences.
Extroverts make up 50-75% of the population, which is why you might feel like you don’t fit in if you’re an introvert. It may also be why people ask things like, “Is introvert a mental disorder?” or wonder ask introverts why seem so quiet. But the truth is that there’s nothing inherently wrong with being a social introvert or extrovert.
That being said, there are some differences that might help to enlighten the answer to the question, “Are introverts more depressed than extroverts?” It can help to examine the traits of both personality types to compare.
Introversion Personality Traits
- More productive on their own than in groups
- Feel more relaxed in solitude or with little stimulation
- Enjoy quiet activities like reading, writing, drawing, or going on walks
- Prefer close friendships over large friend groups
- Often considered a “homebody” or prefer being at home than being out
- Might be introspective or intellectual and think deeply about the world around them
- Can feel overwhelmed or anxious by lots of stimulation or socialization
Extraversion Personality Traits
- More productive and energized with other people
- Outgoing and considered “social butterfly”
- Naturally seeks out healthy relationship dynamics
- Seek out new experiences often
- Make social connections easily
- Too much alone time can cause sadness or boredom
- Solves problems by talking about them with others
Are Introverts More Prone to Mental Illness?
While there’s no such thing as an introvert disorder and you shouldn’t necessarily wonder, “Am I an introvert or depressed?” because introversion is a normal personality, not any negative condition, there are some things to consider.
First is the fact that the world is largely social and because there are more extroverts than introverts, which means that it might be harder to find the right setting for optimal mental health. Since the meaning of extraversion is more in line with social expectations, it can be easier for a lonely extrovert to find a solution than an introvert with depression.
Second, there is research that shows differences in dopamine levels, which might contribute to the common questions, “Are introverts depressed?” and “Is being an introvert a mental illness?” While introversion is in no way a mental illness on its own, dopamine is a chemical that makes us feel good and the differences in amounts might illuminate the root of the mental health differences.
To put it simply, extraversion characteristics might correlate with higher levels of dopamine that make it easier to engage in social situations. Conversely, introverts have lower dopamine but are also more sensitive which is why too much interaction can contribute to overstimulation.
Finally, there is a connection between introverts and depression as well as anxiety. The reason for this might be due to the more introspective nature of introversion. Not only that, but it’s easier to be there for someone who is an extrovert and naturally seeks out social interaction. Plus, many symptoms of depression like isolation are similar to introversion which makes some people believe that someone who is introvert a mental illness sufferer.
Tips for Introvert Mental Health
Is being an introvert a disorder? No, but introverts might handle mental health concerns a little differently than extroverts and vice versa, so it’s a good idea to cover both. That’s especially true since there’s some evidence that those who are introverts more likely to be depressed than their extrovert counterparts.
Introverts rejuvenate their energy and well-being by spending time alone. That means that if you’re introverted, then you should strive to make time in your schedule to spend time doing the things you enjoy on your own. This is the best route for self-care even if you have friends and coworkers who want you to go out, work together, or socialize 7 days a week.
It can be hard to find a balance between social support and isolation, which makes some people feel “extreme introversion disorder” or simply not feel like doing anything with other people. However, it’s still important to socialize as long as you give yourself time to recuperate and prioritize alone time without too much social stimulation.
Try to figure out how to make friends as an adult. As an introvert, try to join groups or take classes that are directly related to your interest. This can make socialization more in-tune with your goals and introverted personality.
If you are wondering if you are an introvert or depression is causing symptoms, you can also seek out help from a mental health professional. You can also talk to MindBar teachers for at-home help!
Tips for Extrovert Mental Health
Are introverts more prone to depression? Maybe, but you can also be a depressed extrovert, which is often what happens when extroverts are alone too long. An extrovert with depression may also be more at risk because it can cause them to self-isolate.
Since an extrovert gets energy and mood-boosting effects from socialization, when extroverts are alone this can just amplify the depression symptoms. That’s why it’s important to have both a strong inner circle of friends as a social support system as well as a larger group of friends if you’re an extrovert. Don’t wear yourself too thin making friends with everyone without being able to figure out how to have meaningful conversations with anybody.
If you’re an extrovert, then you should strive to socialize often, but don’t forget to have some alone time intermingled each week. Find a work/life balance that prioritizes social interaction without forgoing alone time completely.
Do extroverts get depressed when alone? Maybe if the alone time is excessive for their personality. That’s why it’s important to make sure even if you get extrovert depression to seek out social interaction. Then, if you have extrovert depression when alone, try to find stimulating activities that can stimulate dopamine levels and get motivated when depressed.
Extroverts are From Venus, Introverts are From Mars
Whether you’re an extrovert depressed when alone or an introvert who hates being around people too much, the other type of personality may seem alien to you. While there might be a correlation between introvert and depression, both personalities can certainly experience negative mental health effects.
In general, it’s simply best to strive for a balance that works for you. That could be socializing once or twice a week or could be socializing more often than not depending on your personality. If you need a little help with your extrovert or introvert mental disorder, MindBar offers classes on relationships, anxiety, grief, self-care, and more to help. Click here to learn more!