Do you avoid large parties or social events and find excuses to stay home? If so, you may be an introvert. Introverted people tend to listen more than speak, prefer quiet time compared to a noisy group, or try to blend in with the crowd instead of striving to stand out. While this is not always the case, introversion can be a sign that you may have depression. If you want to get out of your comfort zone in groups of people and your lack of social skills harms your life, it is essential to speak to a mental health professional to determine why you fear social situations.
Introversion as a Contributing Factor of Depression
Introversion can make you more sensitive to feelings and emotions and make you more susceptible to negative thinking. Introverts tend to find solace in being by themselves as it is their opportunity to re-energize. Being an introvert can be challenging if you are in a situation where you hardly know anyone or are unfamiliar with your surroundings.
If someone is an introvert also struggling with depression, they may come across as uninterested in what their friends or family have to say when they are quiet. Family and friends may think that something is wrong when a loved one is too afraid to respond or ask for help.
Save Your Energy for Those Who Get You
While introverts often want to spend time alone, it does not mean they want to be alone every moment of their life. It is essential for introverts to find connections with those who understand them. These people can help introverts feel less lonely and improve their overall well-being.
However, in-person interaction may be challenging at times for introverts. As we have learned with the pandemic, there are other ways to communicate with people that may not drain a person’s social battery as much. Not interacting in person can help introverted individuals still have space for quiet when needed. Introverts can even start their friendships through online forums to make it easier for in-person interaction when they are ready.
When to Reach Out For Help
Depression is a mental health disorder that can get worse without treatment. If your depression is causing you to spend more time alone, it may be time to seek professional help. Experiencing constant feelings of sadness, lack of motivation, emotional numbness, or a low mood are also signs you may need to speak to a mental health professional. If your depression separates you from interacting with your loved ones, a therapist can help you see your emotional triggers and suggest helpful treatments.
Introverted people prefer to spend more time alone instead of with a big group of people and tend to be more listeners than talkers. Introversion may be a sign of depression and more than a simple case of being shy in social situations. At Alta Loma, we understand how depression can interfere with your relationships with others, and we are here to help you. Our transformative treatment center in Georgetown, Texas, can offer you tools such as individualized therapy, therapeutic recreational activities, coping skills education, and much more. Call us today at (866) 457-3843.
