Do you have INFJs as friends or loved ones? Have you ever seen a depressed INFJ? If you answered yes to both questions, you might want to read this article.

It discusses who a depressed INFJ is and how you can help them recover.

Who is the Depressed INFJ?

A depressed INFJ is an INFJ who suffers from clinical depression. This is a serious mood disorder marked by persistent sadness over long periods. An INFJ who suffers from depression might feel unloved, abandoned, worthless, or misunderstood.

The problem with INFJ’s depression is that you probably might never know. INFJs often live private lives with a few friends. These friends might also struggle to fully understand them. So, it’s often a lonely road for the INFJ.

Because of how difficult it can be for an INFJ to open up, knowing more about a depressed INFJ is crucial. It could be the difference between life and death.

Depressed INFJ vs Unhealthy INFJ- What’s the Difference?

There’s a lot of difference between an unhealthy INFJ and a depressed INFJ. An unhealthy INFJ is a toxic INFJ. They tend to become the worst version of themselves. In other words, their weaknesses take control and push them to the extreme.

Unhealthiness can often be handled alone and recovery can be swift. It is often caused by stress and bad situations. Depression, on the other hand, is persistent sadness over long periods. This sadness might not be a result of an event and is not normal.

It is also significantly more serious than unhealthiness. If you are facing depression, seek medical help immediately.

How Does a Depressed INFJ Act?

1.   Withdrawal

The first sign that affects almost all depressed INFJs is withdrawal. This makes sense as INFJs are already introverts. Thus, if they are depressed, they are more likely to simply withdraw and isolate themselves.

So, a depressed INFJ can go missing for months when depressed. If you are not close to them, you might not even notice until it’s too late.

2.   Feeling the World is Hostile

Feelings of being cheated or isolated can make the INFJ see the world as hostile, especially towards them. This is one of the problems that can especially affect the INFJ 4w5.

When this happens, INFJs can give up on life and tend to sink deeper into their shell. They might feel worthless or see no sense in putting in effort.

3.   Lack of Productivity/Energy

This follows the last sentence. Once the INFJ believes that there is no point in putting in the work, they start to slack.

This is more serious because INFJs are already not an action-oriented type. So, when they slack off, it can lead to chronic complacency and disorganization.

Their life can crash quickly and hard.

4.   Sad Music on Repeat

A depressed INFJ will seek solace in music. This makes sense as music already appeals to them. If you live with or are close to a depressed INFJ, you’ll quickly notice that most songs on their playlist might be sad songs.

While this is true, INFJs might even sing along to the song, making it difficult to know they are depressed.

5.   Neglecting Themselves

With less effort and motivation comes neglect. INFJs might start neglecting their looks and grooming. For example, their house might be disorganized and their hair overgrown.

Their neglect will inevitably lead to poor hygiene. If nothing is done, things can get really bad.

6.   Guilt/Worthlessness

INFJs might also feel guilty or worthless. This usually happens when there’s an event that leads up to their depression. It can also happen when there’s a challenge after being diagnosed with depression.

If not handled properly, it can seriously dent their self-confidence.

7.   Inferiority Complex

INFJs are probably the most genuine MBTI type. When depressed, things can change. The INFJ will start comparing their lives to others. They might feel inferior or intimidated by others.

This will inevitably lead to the first sign on this list, which is withdrawal. Because INFJs do not regularly open up about their feelings, this can slowly eat them from the inside.

There are other common signs of depression. You can click that link to learn more about them.

What Causes Depression for INFJs?

1.   Hardship

When an INFJ is put under constant stress or suffers over a period, this can easily lead to depression. This is especially true of INFJ 4w5s who might start to get self-absorbed. In other words, they might start feeling targeted or cursed.

This can lead to even more issues.

2.   Failure

Constantly failing can also hit the INFJ hard. This is especially true when everyone around them is making some form of progress. They might start feeling alone and embarrassed.

3.   Disappointment

This follows the last point. Failure, heartbreak, and the death of a loved one can all take their toll on an INFJ. This is especially true because they are feelers.

It can easily lead to depression.

4.   Genetics

While many things can lead to depression, the biggest cause is genetics. Thus, INFJs could do or experience nothing unpleasant but still become depressed.

It’s a cruel world.

How to Recover From Depression as an INFJ

1.   Self-Care

Take care of yourself. Do the things you enjoy. Here’s an article that talks about self-care for INFJ. Focusing on yourself can be very refreshing.

So, why not start today?

2.   Talk About Your Emotions

You are a feeler and you feel things deeply. You should share those emotions with people who care about you and want to help. This will make them feel valued and appreciated.

More importantly, it can be a lifesaver for you.

3.   Focus on Self-Development

Make sure that you keep improving yourself. It doesn’t have to be massive improvements. Just make sure you are moving up one tiny step at a time.

Again, your self-development could be anything that matters to you. So, don’t feel compelled to make big waves. Take your time.

4.   Learn More About Yourself

Knowing more about yourself can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses. You can also understand what triggers you.

A good way to start is by reading more about the INFJs on this website. It can be a real eye-opener.

5.   Seek Medical Assistance

Finally, you should seek medical assistance. This is actually the first step to take if you have depression. Medical experts are best positioned to help you. Self-help will be less effective if you have not been diagnosed yet.

So, take the first step towards recovery by getting a diagnosis.

How Do You Cheer Up an INFJ?

Are you friends with a depressed INFJ? Here are some things that might help.

1.   Be Genuine

Make sure you remain genuine. INFJs go hard for authenticity. This is even true when depressed. They can smell your lies a mile away. So, be truthful with them. While this is true, it doesn’t mean being overly blunt or harsh. That’ll have the opposite effect.

2.   Stick to Them No Matter What

Show them you’re loyal. Your INFJ might go through terrible times and might make a lot of mistakes. Show up for them and stick with them no matter what. This is especially true if they are your romantic partner.

3.   Know their Love Language and Use It

Love languages refer to the way a person receives or gives love. It applies to both friends and romantic relationships.

Learning more about your friend’s or partner’s love languages can you love them better when depressed. For example, if your INFJ’s love language is physical touch, a hug can do wonders for them.

4.   Encourage Them to Seek Help

Finally, you should encourage them to seek help when the situation looks dire. Ensure they see the importance of medical help and that the option is always on the table.

If they feel they have depression, encourage them to get diagnosed. While doing this, make sure you don’t come off as aggressive and domineering. If you do, they won’t listen.