It is often said that high intelligence is a gift, but this “blessing” can also bring with it some hidden challenges, one of them being anxiety. But why does this happen?
Why do people with high intelligence seem to experience situations with more worry and emotional burden than others?
Deep thinking and over-analysis
Intelligent people tend to think deeply about every situation. They are inclined to analyze every detail and consider all possible scenarios. This constant analysis leads to mental fatigue and makes it easier for worries to surface. Instead of focusing on problem-solving, intelligent individuals often get stuck in thoughts about potential risks and possible consequences, which increases anxiety.
Heightened emotional sensitivity
Intelligence is often associated with high emotional sensitivity. Intelligent people not only understand their own feelings better, but they are also more capable of sensing others’ emotions. This sensitivity makes them more prone to stress and anxiety, as they experience distress even from emotionally charged situations, even when they are not directly affected.
Self-criticism and the pursuit of perfection
People with high intelligence often have very high expectations of themselves. They aim for perfection and are extremely hard on themselves when they don’t achieve perfect results. This need to always be the best can lead to a constant feeling of pressure and anxiety. If something goes wrong, they tend to take responsibility upon themselves, re-analyzing the situation and thinking about what they could have done differently.
The connection between creativity and anxiety
Many studies have shown a link between creativity and anxiety. Intelligence is often connected to a creative mind, open to new ideas. But this creative mind can also be a source of anxiety, as the individual imagines different scenarios, thinking about what could go wrong or imagining unknown risks. This link between creative thoughts and anxiety creates a vicious cycle that makes it harder to escape from worries.
A greater sense of responsibility
Intelligent people often feel more responsible for the situations around them. They take every task or challenge they face very seriously, which creates an additional emotional burden. They feel compelled to find solutions to every problem, not just for themselves but also for others. This sense of responsibility makes them more prone to anxiety, as they often face challenges that do not always have an easy solution.
Higher awareness of uncertainty
Intelligent individuals often have a deep awareness of uncertainty and the unpredictability of life. They are more capable of understanding complex situations and the different paths an event might take. This awareness of life’s uncertainties can bring a deep sense of anxiety, as they are always seeking control over something that, in reality, is uncontrollable, cites Anabel.
How can this anxiety be managed?
Although intelligent people may be more prone to anxiety, there are strategies that can help. Meditation and physical exercise are some ways to manage anxiety. It’s also important for them to learn to be kinder to themselves and to accept that not everything can be under their control. Setting boundaries for thoughts and analyses can help them avoid the spiral of overthinking.