As an INFJ, it can be difficult to navigate through sadness and difficult emotions.
INFJs are complex individuals who often feel misunderstood and struggle to open up about their feelings.
When an INFJ is sad, it can feel like the whole world is falling apart. They tend to withdraw and need to be alone, which can worry others who don’t understand how to help.
In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to effectively help a sad INFJ. We will also explore healthy ways for INFJs to express their emotions and how to comfort them during their lowest moments.
So, if you’re looking for ways to support your INFJ friend or partner, keep reading!
What To Do When An INFJ Is Sad
1. Give them space: When an INFJ is sad, they tend to withdraw and need time alone to process their emotions. Respect their need for space and don’t try to force them to talk or be social.
2. Learn their approach: INFJs have a unique approach to dealing with emotions. They may not express their feelings openly, but they may still need someone to be there for them. Learn how your INFJ friend or partner approaches sadness and try to be there for them in a way that works for them.
3. Ask them if you can help: Sometimes, all an INFJ needs is someone to talk to or a shoulder to cry on. Ask them if they need anything from you and let them know that you’re there for them.
4. Be a listening ear: When an INFJ does open up about their feelings, listen attentively without judgment or interruption. Let them express themselves freely and validate their emotions.
5. Give them a shoulder to rely on: INFJs may not always ask for help, but they still need someone they can rely on when they’re feeling down. Be that person for them and offer your support.
6. Be someone they can trust: INFJs value trust and authenticity in relationships. Be someone they can confide in and trust with their deepest emotions.
7. Only advise them with their permission: INFJs may not always want advice, so make sure you have their permission before offering any solutions or suggestions.
8. Get permission before showing physical affection: INFJs may not always be comfortable with physical affection, so make sure you have their permission before hugging or touching them.
9. Do something they will love: Sometimes, doing something fun or enjoyable can help lift an INFJ’s spirits. Find out what they love to do and plan an activity together.
10. Approach a professional if needed: If an INFJ’s sadness persists or becomes overwhelming, encourage them to seek professional help from a therapist or counselor.
Understanding The INFJ Personality
INFJs are complex individuals with a rare personality type that is not easily understood or relatable. They are known as “The Advocate” according to the Meyers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI). INFJs tend to be highly tuned to other people’s emotions and often draw inward during times of stress and conflict. They feel highly misunderstood and don’t open up to others about their feelings, making it challenging to navigate how to help an INFJ who is sad or going through a difficult time.
INFJs have a unique way of seeing the world, which can make it difficult for them to find meaning or purpose in their current situation. When they’re depressed or uninspired, they feel fatigued and drained. This can cause them to sleep whenever they can, slack on their responsibilities, or just shut down.
Besides emotions that seem mellow in nature, the INFJ, like any other person, also experiences emotions with a higher intensity level. However, because of the INFJ’s lack of cognitive functions which can serve as an efficient internal emotional processing system, intense emotions of happiness and joy, but also intense frustration, anger and sadness are hard to downplay or save for later examination.
If something happens that upsets or excites INFJs in a substantial way, the intense emotions which follow can take over their state of mind. This can create a feeling of losing control and being possessed. In extreme cases releasing inhibitions which are necessary to maintain external harmony.
In an attempt to relieve the inner tension, INFJs will feel an urge to express themselves in the moment, verbally or physically, positively or negatively. But verbal or physical expression of an intense emotion will only occur in the moment if the emotion reaches a certain level of intensity when the INFJ feels they can’t control it any longer.
At this stage, the inner makings of Ni will be distorted by emotional turmoil, making its observance more difficult while the intense emotions force their way out through Fe. This stands in contrast to less intense consciously experienced emotions which the INFJ will not necessarily feel the need to express in the moment but rather save for those in the INFJ’s trusted circle where Ni finds the conscious use of their Fe appropriate.
Signs That An INFJ Is Sad
1. Withdrawing from social situations: When an INFJ is sad, they may withdraw from social situations and isolate themselves. They may cancel plans or avoid social gatherings altogether.
2. Loss of interest in activities: INFJs are known for their passion and enthusiasm for the things they love. When they’re sad, they may lose interest in the activities they usually enjoy.
3. Increased sensitivity: INFJs are highly empathetic and can be sensitive to the emotions of others. When they’re sad, they may become even more sensitive and emotional than usual.
4. Difficulty making decisions: INFJs are known for their decisive nature, but when they’re sad, they may struggle to make decisions or feel indecisive.
5. Lack of motivation: INFJs are driven and motivated individuals, but when they’re sad, they may lack the energy or motivation to pursue their goals.
6. Emotional outbursts: While INFJs tend to keep their emotions in check, when they’re sad, they may experience emotional outbursts or mood swings.
7. Increased self-doubt: INFJs are often confident and self-assured, but when they’re sad, they may experience increased self-doubt and insecurity.
8. Changes in sleep patterns: When an INFJ is sad, they may experience changes in their sleep patterns, such as insomnia or oversleeping.
9. Physical symptoms: Sadness can manifest physically in the body. INFJs may experience headaches, stomachaches, or other physical symptoms when they’re sad.
10. Expressing negative thoughts: INFJs tend to be positive and optimistic individuals, but when they’re sad, they may express negative thoughts or feelings about themselves or the world around them.
Why INFJs Struggle To Express Their Emotions
INFJs are known for their empathetic nature and their ability to understand and feel the emotions of others deeply. However, when it comes to expressing their own emotions, they may struggle. This is because INFJs often prioritize the needs of others over their own and may feel hesitant to burden others with their emotions. They may also have a strong need for trust and connection before opening up, which can make it difficult for them to express themselves freely.
Another factor that contributes to INFJs struggling to express their emotions is their intuitive nature. INFJs have a strong ability to sense the emotions and motivations of others, which can lead them to make excuses for bad behavior or avoid expressing their own hurt. Additionally, INFJs may believe that they are strong enough to handle their emotions on their own or that they are overreacting, which can prevent them from seeking support.
How To Effectively Help A Sad INFJ
INFJs are complex individuals who may withdraw when they are sad or going through a difficult time. It can be challenging to know how to help them, but there are some steps you can take to effectively support them.
Firstly, it’s essential to give them space. INFJs tend to need time alone to process their emotions, so respect their need for solitude and don’t try to force them to talk or socialize. However, it’s also important to learn their approach to dealing with sadness. INFJs may not express their feelings openly, but they still need someone to be there for them. Try to be there for them in a way that works for them.
Asking them if you can help is another crucial step. Sometimes, all an INFJ needs is someone to talk to or a shoulder to cry on. Let them know that you’re there for them and ask if they need anything from you. When they do open up about their feelings, be a listening ear. Listen attentively without judgment or interruption and let them express themselves freely.
Giving them a shoulder to rely on is also vital. INFJs may not always ask for help, but they still need someone they can rely on when they’re feeling down. Be that person for them and offer your support. Additionally, be someone they can trust. INFJs value trust and authenticity in relationships, so be someone they can confide in and trust with their deepest emotions.
It’s important to note that INFJs may not always want advice, so make sure you have their permission before offering any solutions or suggestions. Similarly, INFJs may not always be comfortable with physical affection, so make sure you have their permission before hugging or touching them.
Doing something they will love can also help lift an INFJ’s spirits. Find out what they love to do and plan an activity together. Finally, if an INFJ’s sadness persists or becomes overwhelming, encourage them to seek professional help from a therapist or counselor.
Healthy Ways For INFJs To Express Their Emotions
As an INFJ, it can be challenging to express your emotions, especially when you’re feeling sad. However, it’s crucial to find healthy ways to express your feelings to avoid bottling them up, which can lead to depression and anxiety. Here are some healthy ways for INFJs to express their emotions:
1. Write in a journal: Writing is an excellent tool for INFJs to hone their self-expression. Grab a journal or open up a Word document and let your feelings flow. By setting your thoughts and reflections down on paper, you will become clear about who you truly are and what truly matters to you.
2. Talk to someone you trust: If you have a trusted friend who’s willing to lend an ear, talk to them. INFJs may find it difficult to spot and understand their own emotions, but talking about them with someone they trust can help them gain clarity.
3. Find a creative outlet: INFJs are creative individuals who thrive on self-expression through art, music, or other creative outlets. Find a way to express your emotions through your creativity.
4. Meditate: INFJs need time and space alone to process their emotions without any external opinions. Meditation can help calm the mind and allow INFJs to understand and process their emotions without distractions.
5. Exercise: Exercise is an excellent way for INFJs to release pent-up emotions and boost their mood. Whether it’s going for a run or taking a yoga class, find an exercise routine that works for you.
6. Practice self-care: INFJs often put others’ needs before their own, but it’s essential to take care of yourself first. Take a relaxing bath, read a book, or do something else that helps you feel rejuvenated.
Comforting An INFJ During Their Lowest Moments
INFJs can experience intense emotions during their lowest moments, and it can be challenging to comfort them. Here are some tips on how to comfort an INFJ during their lowest moments:
1. Respect their need for space: INFJs need time alone to process their emotions, so it’s important to give them space when they’re feeling down. Don’t try to force them to talk or be social, but let them know that you’re there for them if they need you.
2. Validate their emotions: When an INFJ does open up about their feelings, listen attentively without judgment or interruption. Let them express themselves freely and validate their emotions. Let them know that it’s okay to feel the way they do and that you understand.
3. Be a supportive presence: INFJs may not always ask for help, but they still need someone they can rely on when they’re feeling down. Be that person for them and offer your support. Let them know that you’re there for them and that they can count on you.
4. Offer practical help: Sometimes, offering practical help can be a great way to comfort an INFJ. Offer to help with household chores or errands so that they can focus on their emotions.
5. Be patient: INFJs need time to process their emotions, so it’s important to be patient with them. Don’t rush them or try to force them to feel better. Let them take the time they need to heal.
6. Encourage self-care: Encourage your INFJ friend or partner to take care of themselves during their lowest moments. Encourage them to get enough sleep, eat healthy foods, and engage in activities that make them feel good.
7. Avoid giving unsolicited advice: INFJs may not always want advice, so make sure you have their permission before offering any solutions or suggestions. Instead, focus on being a listening ear and a supportive presence.
8. Show physical affection with permission: INFJs may not always be comfortable with physical affection, so make sure you have their permission before hugging or touching them. Ask them what kind of physical affection they’re comfortable with and respect their boundaries.
9. Plan an activity together: Doing something fun or enjoyable can help lift an INFJ’s spirits. Find out what they love to do and plan an activity together. It could be something as simple as watching a movie or going for a walk.
10. Encourage seeking professional help if needed: If an INFJ’s sadness persists or becomes overwhelming, encourage them to seek professional help from a therapist or counselor. Let them know that it’s okay to ask for help and that seeking professional help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Remember, comforting an INFJ during their lowest moments can be challenging, but with patience, understanding, and support, you can help them through it.
