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Guilt for Social Detoxing

User Profile: BunnyInSeattle
BunnyInSeattle August 4th, 2020

So this probably requires a bit of a background because I'm not generally a socially anxious person: I'm a pretty severe introvert but I've worked in retail for about a decade now. It's a very mentally draining thing for me but I'm good at it and I've kind of pigeon holed myself into it. I'm not really looking to change careers because I like the schedule and routine that comes with my job outside of the social aspects.

I do find myself very quickly mentally drained by larger gathering of people. I live with two other people who are way more extroverted and socialize really frequently so it's rare that I'm truly "alone". I like my roommates but I also have a lot of times where I want to be alone or only maybe deal with one other person while I mentally detox myself from the stress and anxiety I put myself through already.

He becomes pretty passive aggressive if he doesn't get full blown irritated with me and puts me down when I try to respectfully distance myself.

Sometimes I'm on the brink of tears because I don't think it's wrong to want alone time, even if it's when he brings company over. How do I approach it in a way that will make him understand how deperate I am for an inner isolation and quiet place to give myself peace of mind?

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User Profile: WhiteAura9
WhiteAura9 August 12th, 2020

@BunnyInSeattle

Hey, I get you! I am an introvert, too, and large gatherings or unnecessary small talk for a prolonged time drains me. I am at my best during one-on-one conversations with like-minded individuals.

I understand how taxing it must be for you to be constantly surrounded by extroverted roommates who demand your time, energy, and attention at all times. Have you tried talking to your roommate about the differences between your personality and theirs? Would you like to ask them why it bothers them if you seek space and solace? To start off, I would recommend that you initiate a healthy conversation with them letting them know how you are, your intentions, and try and understand why it affects them when you're not around. Also, let them know it is not anything that they do but your need for breather that makes you want to distance yourself. Maybe this discussion will bring newer aspects to light. Also, prior to this discussion, clearly draw out all the points you would like to mention and discuss so that you cover everything and articulate well (so as to avoid misunderstanding) during the actual conversation.

If you have already tried it, or incase you initiate the conversation and it doesnt go your way, please feel free to write to me. I am sure together we can work towards helping you help yourself. heart

Having said that, please know that there is nothing wrong in needing peace of mind and doing whatever is necessary to achieve it. Outgoing people may not necessarily understand the needs of an introvert but that shouldnt make you feel bad. You're only doing whatever is necessary to maintain your healthy routine, and that is never wrong! Not everyone will understand and thats also okay as long as you believe it is not wrong. So, do not let the opinions of others shape your life. smiley

User Profile: sympatheticKitten8138
sympatheticKitten8138 August 13th, 2020

Hi Bunny, I feel you in this. Im an introvert too and need EPIC amounts of recharge time in between meeting other people.

One thing Ive noticed about extroverts is that they sometimes dont know about introverts. They dont know that there are different ways of looking at the world, and they genuinely believe that youre trying to be mean to them.

What worked for my extrovert boss was to have him read an article on introverts. Then he connected the dots and understood what was going on.

This might not work for your roommate but its worth giving it a try imho!