If You Are Intelligent and Often Depressed, Read This!

articlemostwanted - It's generally agreed upon that having a high IQ is favorable because it makes it simpler to succeed academically, opens up more professional options, and increases one's chances of being financially secure. However, did you realize that amazing intelligence might have a negative side? According to research, a person's risk of anxiety and mood problems increases with their IQ. In truth, a study of Mensa members (those with IQs over 130) revealed that 20% suffered from anxiety and 27% from mood disorders including depression. Even more startling is the fact that, in comparison to the general population, people with high IQs had an 182% higher risk of mental disorders. How can this be?

1. Overthinking and Overanalyzing

Complex cognitive processes are common among exceptionally intelligent people. A small problem that others brush off can turn into a significant source of worry. A boss's criticism, for instance, could start an ongoing downward spiral of overanalysis and worst-case scenario thinking. They could find it difficult to enjoy social situations because they spend too much time with analyzing the situation or determining whether other people are at ease.

2. Trapped by High Expectations

Sharp self-awareness of one's potential is sometimes a form of above-average intelligence. Setting unreasonably high standards is the result of this. When these expectations aren’t met, disappointment and self-blame follow. External pressure from others to “always excel” simply intensifies the stress.

3. Accustomed to Instant Success

Many gifted individuals coast through school with stellar academic achievements, grasping concepts faster than peers. But the real world isn’t as straightforward. Success beyond academics demands skills, creativity, and resilience—not just intellect. When faced with challenges requiring sustained effort, they may crumble under frustration, unaccustomed to failure.

4. Difficulty Learning from Failure

Because high-IQ persons typically succeed effortlessly, they may lack experience coping with failures. When problems arise, they’re prone to feeling trapped, demotivated, or even giving up. Yet, learning from failure can be valuable in real life.

5. Struggling to Build and Maintain Friendships

Intelligent people often find it hard to connect with others who truly “get” them. Others may perceive them as overly serious or arrogant. Meanwhile, they feel frustrated when peers struggle to follow their thought processes, even after simplified explanations.

6. Communication Challenges

High intelligence can make someone feel like they’re operating on a different “wavelength.” Explaining complex ideas in relatable terms becomes a hurdle, leaving them feeling isolated in conversations—or opting out entirely due to a lack of connection.

7. Feeling More Comfortable with Older Friends

According to studies, kids with high IQs tend to choose friendships with adults who share their depth of ideas. Although this is mentally satisfying, it might make it more difficult to build relationships with peers, which can result in loneliness.

What Can Be Done?

Just know that you're definitely not alone if this sounds familiar. Just because you have a high IQ doesn't imply you have to face all of this alone. It's perfectly OK to rely on your community of support, which may include close friends, family, or even experts like psychologists. Being intelligent can have issues, but with a good approach, you could lead a happy well-rounded life. Keep in mind that great brilliance takes more than just intelligence; it also involves managing life's ups and downs with an element of grace.