Introverts often deal with unique mental health challenges. They may struggle with feelings of isolation or depression, and can be perfectionists to a fault. However, introverts also have many strengths that should be celebrated and can help protect your mental health.

In this post, we'll discuss both mental health vulnerabilities and strengths common of introverts as well as some tips for protecting your mental health as an introvert.

Mental Health Challenges of Being Introverted

As an introvert, you may be more prone to certain mental health challenges. For example, you may:

* Struggle with feelings of isolation or depression

* Be a perfectionist to a fault

*May have a smaller social support system

* Experience mental and physical exhaustion from overstimulation

*Feel pressure to act more "extroverted"

*Try to act outwardly compliant or struggle to stand up for yourself

If you identify with any of these struggles, know that you are not alone. Many introverts face similar challenges. The key is to find healthy coping mechanisms that work for you.

Mental Health Strengths of Introverts

Despite the challenges, there are also many strengths that come with being introverted. For example, you may:

* Be highly creative

* Think deeply and critically

* Appreciate alone time

* Have a strong sense of inner thoughts and feelings

* Be reflective and introspective

If any of these strengths resonate with you, make sure to nurture them. They are unique gifts that can bring joy to your life. Nurturing and leaning into these strengths can help  offset some of the challenges that come with being introverted.

Tips for Protecting Your Mental Health as an Introvert

So what can you do to protect your mental health as an introvert? Here are a few tips:

Make time for yourself.

As an introvert, you need time to recharge after being around people. It's ok to take a break when you need one. Make sure to schedule some alone time into your week so that you can relax and rejuvenate. This may mean taking a walk by yourself, reading a book, or just sitting in silence.

Connect with other introverts.

Just because you're an introvert doesn't mean you have to avoid all social interaction. Seek out other introverts with whom you can have meaningful conversations. These deep connections will be nourishing for your soul.

Find an activity that calms you.

Everyone needs a way to unwind and de-stress. For introverts, this may be something like yoga, meditation, or nature walks. Find an activity that helps you relax and prioritize making time for this activity regularly.

Invest in Relationships You Find Fulfilling

A strong support system is important for mental health. But for an introvert, it's often exhausting to  be around people all the time. That's why it's important to save most of your "peopling" energy to invest in relationships that are meaningful and fulfilling. This may mean having fewer close friends, but making sure those friendships are high quality.

Don't Compare Yourself too Much to Extroverts

We all compare ourselves to those around us from time to time. But  if you find yourself constantly comparing your introverted self to extroverts, it can lead to feelings of inadequacy. Remember that there is no "right" way to be. Your needs are different as an introvert, so comparing yourself to your extrovert friends and family  is not productive or helpful.

Cultivate A Relationship With Yourself

This tip actually comes from Enid De Jesus, an expert in introversion and the impact of introversion on mental health. She talks about improving your relationship with your introverted self by asking yourself what you truly need, establishing a positive routine and being honest with yourself.

Accept Yourself for Who You Are

This is perhaps the most important tip of all. In order to protect your mental health as an introvert, you must first accept yourself for who you are. This means accepting your need for alone time, your love of deep conversations, and your preference for small social gatherings. Once you accept yourself, it will be much easier to find peace and contentment in your life.

Support For Introverts in Missouri

By following these tips, you can start to create a healthy routine that works for you as an introvert. Remember to take things at your own pace and be patient with yourself - Rome wasn't built in a day! Creating lasting change takes time, but it is so worth it in the end. Trust us, we know. If you live in Missouri and are looking for more support, Aspire Counseling has several therapists who may be a good fit.

All of our therapists can help individuals with anxiety, self esteem, etc. And most have specialized training in trauma therapy & PTSD treatment. Others have additional specialties such as in treating chronic self harm or suicidal ideation, eating disorders, grief or other issues.

However, as an introvert your therapist's personality may matter as much as their expertise.  So, feel free to let our intake team know some of those personality traits you may prefer as well.  We really value matching you with the right therapist, so if you're looking for someone who may be a little quieter, more calm, who also identifies as an introvert (or the opposite-maybe you'd prefer an extrovert?), or any other personality trait feel free to mention those preferences and we're happy to consider those before recommending a therapist.  Additionally, all of our therapists have written a little bit about themselves and recorded a short video to help you get to know them so you can get a "feel" for your therapist by looking at their page on our website.

Being an introvert can be a superpower. But even superheros need support sometimes. Our clinicians would love to help, so reach out today and let's figure out which one of our counselors is a fit!