INTPs are wonderful people. They are creative and can be very logical. We certainly love the INTP when they are healthy. However, when facing the INTP dark side, things take a different turn.
In this article, we’ll talk about the INTP dark side, the signs an INTP is unhealthy, and how to get out. So, if you’re ready, let’s begin!
What is the INTP Dark Side?
The INTP dark side is the unhealthy INTP. This usually happens when the INTP finds themselves in certain situations.
This might include stress, grief, or something else. When the INTP dark side takes over, you see a different side of the INTP.
If this is the first time you see them this way, it might be surprising or just downright shocking. You should know that most INTPs will be unhealthy during many periods of their life.
Top Signs of an Unhealthy INTP
1. Analysis Paralysis
The first sign that an INTP is unhealthy is analysis paralysis. Here’s why this happens. The INTP is a thinker. They lead with the introverted thinking (Ti) function.
This just means that their first means of taking in and processing information is by thinking about it. Once they’re done, they use their extroverted intuition (Ne) to express their well-filtered ideas.
Analysis paralysis is a situation where they are stuck in the process of analysis. They just cannot seem to decide on what might be the truth or the right call to be made.
When this happens, the INTP might become less action-oriented, complacent, or just plain indecisive.
This is a sure sign that the INTP is currently unhealthy.
2. The Need for Perfection
INTPs are perceivers. This means they prize spontaneity over well-planned actions. When the INTP is unhealthy, they become rigid. They obsess over tiny details and want everything to be perfect.
When they’re like this, they look a lot like the INTJ. This is a sure sign that they are either frustrated or stressed out.
In worst-case scenarios, they become far too irritable and people avoid them.
3. Extreme Detachment
INTPs are super introverts. This means that they enjoy their alone time. While this is true, it doesn’t mean that the INTP never interacts with others.
So, when the INTP detaches too much from their own family, this can be a problem. This can be a tricky problem to spot because of their love for isolation.
However, if this detachment problem is a sign of depression, it can get ugly.
4. Depression
Depression is another sign of the INTP dark side. When things don’t seem to go their way, it’s easy for the INTP to be depressed. INTP 4w5 is especially vulnerable to this problem.
INTPs find it hard to discuss the way they feel. This can make spotting a depressed INTP a herculean job, to say the least.
In worst-case scenarios, an INTP can become suicidal if left to their problems. They can also become sadistic. However, this is only a worst-case scenario.
5. Too Logical
INTPs are logical. They pride themselves on being straight talkers. While this is true, an INTP still has extroverted feeling (Fe). So they are usually a bit more considerate with others.
When they are unhealthy, their Fe goes completely dead. They can say hurtful things without a care in the world. When this happens, their loved ones will feel hurt and often feel they have gone too far.
When your INTP becomes extremely insensitive, it can be a sign that something’s up.
6. Nihilism
Nihilism is a belief that life is meaningless. INTPs have some strong values. However, they also have the problem of nihilism. When this kicks in, this personality type might believe that trying to get better or improve is just a waste of time.
Life is meaningless and there’s no need to do things that are hopelessly meaningless too.
If this situation deteriorates, then they can slowly become suicidal.
7. Insecurity
INTPs are confident. They are confident in their own skin and do not feel like they have anything to prove.
They are also confident in their thoughts and truly believe they are smart. When the INTP is unhealthy, their confidence starts to disappear. They become less secure about themselves and start to seek outward validation.
This problem can slowly affect their decision-making abilities.
How to Get Out of the INTP Dark Side
So, what if you are currently an unhealthy INTP? Here are some things you can do to get better.
1. Talk to Someone
The first thing is to talk to someone. It has to be someone you trust and someone that gets you. INTPs find it easier to talk to ENTPs and ENTJs. So, if you have a friend that’s either of those types, that’ll be perfect.
You can also talk with your partner or family. Just make sure you tell them what you don’t need from them before you start talking.
Sometimes, people with the best intentions can make things worse.
2. See a Therapist
Another step you can take is to see a therapist. If you do not feel like stepping into a physical office, there are ways to get this done from your home. A good option is the Online-therapy platform.
Just make sure you are comfortable with the therapist you pick.
3. Read More About Yourself
Sometimes, we become unhealthy because we don’t know who we are, our strengths, or our weaknesses.
So, if you’re an INTP, start by reading more about yourself. There’s a whole category dedicated to INTPs on this website. You can take a look when you can. By taking the time to learn more about your MBTI and enneagram type, things will get better.
4. Take a Day To Interact with People
Finally, take some time off from being alone. Yes, it’ll drain your batteries. But hanging out with a small group of friends you trust will do a lot of good. You’ll realize that things are not as bad as it seems.
So, why not give it a try?
The INTP dark side can seem very challenging when you’re in it. However, with the right attitude and effort, you should overcome it in no time.
