Introversion, or in simpler terms, “being an introvert” is sometimes thought of as a health concern rather than a personality type. This is a common mistake because introversion qualities like being noticeably unsocial or short-spoken can give the impression that the person is dealing with a disorder or health condition of some kind.

The most honest answer though is that being an introvert does not mean you have a health condition. Introverts are considered members of a distinct personality type categorized by traits like being quiet, feeling comfortable, and enjoying being alone, preferring to non-verbally communicate, being highly reflective and self-aware.

There are introverts that experience health issues, but that’s just like anyone else. Take a look below for the main differences between health issues and identifying as an introvert.

Personality Disorders

There are various types of personality disorders, but the ones that arguably can be associated with introversion are the antisocial, avoidant, or Schizoid personality disorders.

• Antisocial personality disorder: A mental disorder in which a person seems to show no regard for right and wrong and disregard other people’s feelings and wellbeing. Those diagnosed with the disorder are known to treat others wrongly, like harassing them or acting coldly. They do not show guilt or remorse for their behavior. More than that, this disorder is severe to the point that individuals with ASPD are found to become criminals by disregarding social rules.
• Avoidant personality disorder: This disorder is characterized by constantly fearing criticism or rejection from others. Those with this disorder have a very difficult time interacting or maintaining relationships day-to-day because they don’t feel welcome or accepted. They will self-isolate because they don’t feel confident enough in themselves to be around others and already believe that they deserve to be ridiculed and shunned because of their shy behavior.
• Schizoid personality disorder: Those with this order act quite reclusive and set up their lives so they can avoid contact with other people as much as possible. Many may never move out of their family home and marry, or even establish close relationships with anyone at all, even with family members. They are loners by definition and don’t tend to express strong emotions. This disorder is not to be mistaken with schizophrenia, as people with schizoid personality disorder can still function in society to a decent agree.

All three of these disorders and many others that could be carelessly connected to introversion are completely different things. Personality disorders are serious issues that affect a person’s health and ability to live a normal and fulfilling life. To be an introvert means that you are living a fulfilling life in a way that meets your individual needs.

Introverts can and do maintain deep and meaningful relationships with others. They are also active members of society that engage with others normally but might prefer to have some distance or alone time to rejuvenate themselves.

The Personality Scale

Health issues are separate from introverted behavior because being introverted is a preference of individuals based on their traits. It can also be described as where we choose to direct our energy.

Introverts tend to direct them inward. They are self-reflective and consider how they feel about things and what decisions they’ll make based on that contemplative time. They actually enjoy having the time to muse and might even forget to actually perform the action they’ve ultimately decided on. That’s why they might come off less talkative or reserved. They’re stuck in their minds and it’s warm and familiar in there.

Related: Can You Be A Shy Extrovert?

Everyone has a mixture of introversion and extraversion. It’s not a single choice of where you land but more a matter of where you lean on a personality scale. There are other factors that make up a person’s personality and behavior. Like those that value being practical, realistic, and efficient, or someone who is imaginative, open-minded, and adventurous.

Both sets of characteristics can belong to an extroverted or more introverted person. That’s why it’s a mixture of two types on opposite sides of a scale. Even if it seems like a person is extremely introverted and is on the extreme end, they still have some extraverted qualities if they gain energy through an outside source. This can be something as irrelevant as your likelihood to start a conversation first.

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