INFP and Deppresion

When it comes to Depression, I found that INFP is the most likely of all the types to report suicidal thoughts in college (MBTI Manual, 1998) as well as having the highest level of depression of the 16 types (Shelton, MBTI Applications, 1996). From McMan's Depression and Bipolar Web, he conducted an informal poll and posted the findings here: Taking it Personally. In it he found that more than 80% of the respondents are introverts, when they only account for less than 30% of the general population. Idealists (NF's) are also over-represented, at around 40% (but only comprise 8% of general population).

McMan mentioned a study by David Janowsky MD of the University of North Carolina in 2002, where he found a preponderance of introverts and feelers among a depressed population (74 percent introverts and 84 percent feelers).

So, what have we learnt?
• IN's are a lonely bunch
• NP's are most likely to be diagnosed ADD
• I's, NF's and F's are predominant among the depressed

Hey, who has all of the above? INFP! Of course, this doesn't mean that all INFP's end up being depressed ADDers, or that all those diagnosed with ADD and depression will be of type INFP. Just that there's a strong correlation between the type and the respective "disorders". Some people are biologically depressed due to chemical imbalance. Some type of ADD are caused by brain defects. But studies show that less than 10% of depression is biologically caused. So what causes depression? Stress (among other factors). Feeling the need to "fit in" a world dominated by ESTJ/SJ's, or at least a world where ESTJ type is encouraged (many U.S. presidents are ESTJ's, including George W. Bush). Also, a lot of gifted and creative kids are mis-diagnosed with ADD, simply because they are misunderstood.

I think we need more understanding all around. To understand ourselves better, and to understand each other better. For the "majority" to understand that the "minority" are not just "trying to be different", they are different. And for those who are different to understand that it's OK to be different. If we can try to understand how the various personality types function, the different ways they view the world, the different things that make them tick, we can get along much better and have more meaningful relationships.

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