Depression always leaves psychologists stumped. Each person affected by depression shows different symptoms. Around 350 million people are currently depression around the world according to the CDC. Despite it being so prominent, we still haven’t figured out the exact cause of the illness.
Some psychologists and scientists suggest that depression and personality may be connected. Although personality doesn’t cause depression, people with certain personality traits appear to be more prone to it than others.
Here are some personality types that have known to be at a greater risk of developing depression:
Isolated introverts
Some introverts are much more social than others but generally speaking, introverts do enjoy their own company. Depending on where they are on the spectrum of “introvertedness”, they can develop social anxiety that prevents them from socializing and connecting with people, forcing them into a life of isolation and depression.
Overachieving perfectionists
Being a perfectionist has its downside. Overachieving perfectionists are incredibly self-critical and are unforgiving when it comes to mistakes they may have made. They tend to be overly conscious about what others may think of them and are inclined to obsess over their imperfections. All the negativity they harbor eventually turns into anxiety and depression.
Lost creative types
Creative types have difficulty in finding focus in their lives and relationships. They are easily distracted by vivid fantasies and their fickle thought processes. Because others struggle to relate to them, creative types have a tendency to withdraw inwards. Instead of sharing their emotions and thoughts with others, they begin to hold it in.
Over time, they become very observant, highly sensitive individuals that who engage in excessive contemplation and reflection.
These individuals may be immensely talented but are prone to developing feelings of intense depression and psychological disorders.
There is no guarantee that people belonging to these groups will develop depression but research has shown time and again that these groups consist of more depressed individuals than others. Most people with depression share traits that indicate “neuroticism”.
If you or a loved one is suffering from depression, it’s best to seek professional help.
David Myers is an experienced psychotherapist in Birmingham, Alabama. David treats depression with psychotherapy and psychodynamic therapy. Contact David by calling (205) 251-8808 to book an appointment and determine the best treatment for you.