Stress Reactions in Introverts and Extroverts

One of the biggest differences between introvertsdeep humiliation because of it.
and extroverts is how they react to stress.•Introverts prefer to communicate in writing. They
Some people don’t understand how introvertsmay feel exhausted by too much verbal
react to stress. Because of this, they think that allcommunication that “isn’t going
introverts are “neurotic” or mentally ill. Let meanywhere”. Introverts hate small talk and cell
explain why this is a misperception.phones.
When extroverts are stressed they “act out”.•Introverts like to be prepared. If rushed to
They may smoke, drink, yell and scream, throw apresent a solution or opinion, they may be extremely
punch, stomp around or generally raise the roof.uncomfortable and sometimes refuse to do so at all.
Although this behavior is difficult and even obnoxious,What are some of the ways that introverts restore
it is not considered “mentally ill”.balance?
When introverts are stressed, they withdraw. They•Introverts need to spend at least half their time
do this to recharge their batteries, not because theyalone for optimal good health
are neurotic. Introverts need time alone to bring•Introverts love long trips, walks in nature and
order back into their inner world. They give energyusually enjoy the company of animals. These
to others and receive energy when alone.activities restore their peace of mind and equilibrium.
Let’s look at some of the things that can•Introverts give energy when they are with
stress introverts.people and need to be alone to recharge their
•Introverts are territorial. Someone cannot takebatteries.
your seat, move your stuff, lean on your desk,•Introverts need a room of their own with a door
ignore your closed door or borrow your clothesthat closes.
without making you very angry.•Introverts need to give themselves permission to
•Introverts need time alone to recharge theircommunicate via email or in writing and to ignore
batteries. If denied time alone, you may becomephone calls or get a good answering machine.
irritable and depressed.•Decision making should take place without time
• Introverts value privacy. When your boundariespressure if possible. Introverts like to be prepared!
are disregarded, when someone has a loud personalIf you’re an introvert, it’s important to
conversation on their cell phone in your captiveunderstand your natural reactions to stress and what
presence, such as waiting in the checkout line at theyou can do to restore your equilibrium. Retreats into
grocery store, you can be annoyed and offended.self are neither neurotic nor mentally ill. They are a
•Introverts fear failure in public and experiencenatural restorative to introverts.