Are you an INFJ who finds yourself crying frequently? Or do you know someone who is an INFJ and seems to cry more often than others?
If so, you’re not alone. INFJs are known for their empathetic nature and sensitivity, which can lead to frequent tears.
In this article, we’ll explore why INFJs cry more often than others, how they cope with their emotions, and what you can do to support them.
So grab a tissue and let’s dive in.
Do INFJ Cry A Lot
INFJs are known for their emotional depth and sensitivity, which can make them more prone to tears than other personality types. Unlike many others, when faced with conflicts, INFJs tend to feel more sadness than anger, which explains why they cry more frequently than the rest.
Their empathetic nature enables them to feel deeply for others, and this can also contribute to their tendency to cry. INFJs are sensitive souls who are easily overwhelmed by the world around them, and they have their limits. If they feel stressed by their environment or the people in it, they may cry or become very quiet and want to be alone.
It’s important to note that crying is a natural and healthy way for INFJs to express their emotions. It’s a way for them to release pent-up feelings and process difficult experiences. However, some INFJs may struggle with crying in front of others, as they may fear being seen as weak or burdensome.
The Empathetic Nature Of INFJs
One of the defining traits of INFJs is their empathetic nature. They have a deep affinity for other people’s feelings and are incredibly sensitive to suffering. This intense empathy can push INFJs to the top of the sensitivity list. They are often deep thinkers and are also incredibly attuned to the needs of the people around them.
INFJs are highly sensitive to the words and deeds of those close to them. They have strong emotional connections to both their own feelings and the feelings of others. They tend to experience sadness about the cruelty they witness in the world which can lead them to have isolated periods. This sensitivity can be both a blessing and a curse for INFJs.
On one hand, it gives them a frighteningly accurate ability to understand why other people feel what they do. They will cry with you, get angry with you, feel afraid with you. The solidarity INFJs can provide is staggering. Their ability to combine feeling with intuition means that they can easily understand how your situation will unfold. If you have a desire to change your life or to reach a goal, the INFJ can help you determine what steps to take to get there.
On the other hand, this intense empathy can be overwhelming for INFJs. They are unable to just turn away from someone who is in pain and may struggle with setting boundaries. They tend to take on the emotions of others, which can lead to emotional exhaustion and burnout.
The Science Behind Crying: Why INFJs Cry More Often
Crying is a complex physiological and emotional response that is triggered by a variety of factors. From a scientific standpoint, crying is a way for the body to release excess stress hormones and toxins, which can help to reduce feelings of sadness and anxiety. When we cry, our body produces tears that contain natural painkillers called endorphins, which can help to alleviate physical and emotional pain.
Research has shown that INFJs may cry more often than other personality types due to their heightened sensitivity and emotional intelligence. INFJs have a deep understanding of their own emotions and the emotions of others, which can make them more attuned to the subtle changes in mood and energy that can trigger tears.
Additionally, INFJs tend to be introspective and reflective, which means that they may spend more time processing their emotions than other personality types. This can lead to a build-up of emotions that eventually need to be released through crying.
It’s also worth noting that crying is not just a physical response – it’s also a social and cultural one. In some cultures, crying is seen as a sign of weakness or vulnerability, while in others it’s viewed as a natural and healthy way to express emotions. INFJs may be more likely to cry due to their unique cultural backgrounds and personal experiences.
Coping Mechanisms For INFJs
For INFJs who struggle with crying or want to manage their emotions better, there are several coping mechanisms that can be helpful:
1. Exercise: Physical activity can help INFJs get in touch with a healthy form of Extraverted Sensing and get out of an unhealthy grip response. Exercise also releases natural stress-relieving endorphins in the brain, which can help them to snap out of an unhealthy stress phase.
2. Talking to someone: INFJs tend to solve problems by articulating them, so talking to a trusted friend or therapist can help put their feelings into perspective. This can also offer a safe space for them to express their emotions without fear of judgment.
3. Spending time alone: INFJs may benefit from taking time alone to separate their feelings from those of others and understand themselves without distortion. This can help them to reconnect with their intuition and honor their muse.
4. Allowing themselves to cry: It’s important for INFJs to allow themselves to cry when they need to, even if it means doing it alone. Crying is a natural and healthy way for them to express their emotions and release pent-up feelings.
5. Engaging in creative activities: INFJs have a habit of dropping all their favorite activities when stressed, but engaging in creative activities can help give them permission to be creative and put their intuition back in charge. This can offer the same catharsis as talking to someone or spending time alone.
Supporting An INFJ Who Cries Frequently
If you have an INFJ in your life who cries frequently, it’s important to understand that this is a normal and healthy way for them to express their emotions. Here are some ways you can support them:
1. Create a safe space: INFJs may feel uncomfortable crying in front of others, so it’s important to create a safe and non-judgmental space for them to express their emotions. Let them know that it’s okay to cry and that you are there to support them.
2. Listen actively: When an INFJ is crying, it’s important to listen actively and attentively. Avoid interrupting or offering unsolicited advice, and instead, allow them to express themselves fully.
3. Offer comfort: INFJs may appreciate physical comfort when they are crying, such as a hug or holding their hand. However, it’s important to ask for their consent before offering physical comfort, as some INFJs may prefer to be left alone.
4. Validate their emotions: INFJs may feel invalidated or dismissed when others try to downplay their emotions or offer solutions too quickly. Instead, validate their emotions by acknowledging how they feel and expressing empathy.
5. Encourage self-care: Crying can be emotionally exhausting for INFJs, so it’s important to encourage them to practice self-care afterwards. This may include taking a break, engaging in relaxing activities, or seeking professional help if needed.
By supporting an INFJ who cries frequently, you can help them feel seen, heard, and validated in their emotions. Remember that crying is a natural and healthy way for INFJs to express themselves, and your support can make a big difference in their emotional well-being.
Breaking The Stigma: It’s Okay For INFJs To Cry
There is a stigma in society that crying is a sign of weakness, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. Crying is a natural human response to emotional pain, and it’s important for INFJs to understand that it’s okay for them to cry.
As sensitive introverts, INFJs may struggle with expressing their emotions in front of others, but it’s important for them to know that crying is a healthy way to release their feelings. Suppressing emotions can lead to more significant problems in the long run, such as anxiety and depression.
It’s important for INFJs to create a safe space for themselves where they can cry without fear of judgment or shame. This could be a private room, a trusted friend or family member, or even a therapist. By allowing themselves to cry and process their emotions, INFJs can find healing and move forward from difficult situations.
It’s also important for INFJs to know that crying doesn’t make them weak or less capable. In fact, it takes strength and courage to allow oneself to be vulnerable and express their emotions. Crying is a sign of emotional intelligence and shows that an individual is in tune with their feelings.
In conclusion, it’s perfectly normal for INFJs to cry, and it’s essential for them to break the stigma surrounding crying. By creating a safe space for themselves and allowing themselves to express their emotions, INFJs can find healing and move forward in their lives.
