What It Means To Be Neurotic: The Contributing Factors

Medically reviewed by Karen Foster
Updated March 19, 2024by BetterHelp Editorial Team

Neuroticism, as one of the five dimensions of personality, generally refers to an individual's emotional stability and tendency to experience negative emotions. People with high levels of neuroticism are usually more susceptible to anxiety, worry, and depression, which can make it challenging to cope with stressful situations. Relationships can also be impacted by neuroticism, as emotional instability may lead to misunderstandings, low intimacy, and conflict. If you experience signs of neuroticism, working with a therapist in your local area or online may be helpful.

What is neuroticism?

Neuroticism is usually considered to be a personality trait that reflects an individual's tendency to experience negative emotions. High levels of neuroticism may indicate that emotions like fear, anger, anxiety, and sadness might be more pronounced. People with high levels of neuroticism may also be more easily overwhelmed by these emotions, which can make it difficult for them to cope with stressful situations. 

Despite these challenges, neuroticism is not necessarily classified as a disorder or a mental illness. Neuroticism is not generally synonymous with neurotic disorders, either. Neuroticism can be a stable personality trait that may impact an individual's emotional well-being. With the right support, individuals who score high in neuroticism can learn to manage their emotions and lead fulfilling lives.

If you are struggling with symptoms of neuroticism, it can be beneficial to seek help from a mental health professional. A therapist can work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and goals. With the proper support, it can be possible to manage the effects of neuroticism and lead a happy, fulfilling life.

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Sign of neuroticism

Signs of neuroticism can include:
  • Difficulty controlling emotions
  • Easily overwhelmed by stress
  • Low self-esteem
  • Tendency to ruminate and worry excessively
  • Negative thinking
  • Quickly becoming irritable or frustrated

These symptoms may indicate high levels of neuroticism, and you might consider seeking help from a mental health professional if these signs are present.

Neuroticism: Contributing factors

Researchers have identified various potential contributing factors when trying to pinpoint the root causes of neuroticism. Some of them may include the following:

Early childhood experiences

A lack of emotional support or exposure to traumatic events during childhood can contribute to the development of neuroticism. Children who grow up in unstable, neglectful, or abusive* environments may be more prone to developing negative thought patterns and emotions that persist into adulthood.

If you are experiencing trauma, support is available. Please see our Get Help Now page for more resources.

Additionally, childhood experiences often shape our beliefs, which can impact our levels of neuroticism. For example, a child who experiences frequent criticism or rejection may believe that they are inadequate or unlovable, which could lead to anxiety and low self-esteem in adulthood.

*If you or a loved one is witnessing or experiencing abuse, please know that help is available. You can call the National Domestic Violence Hotline anytime at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).

Life events

Losing a loved one, experiencing a relationship breakup, or going through a significant change in circumstances may also trigger anxiety and worry in people who score high in neuroticism. These events can challenge our sense of assurance and disrupt our sense of stability, which may lead to negative emotions and difficulty managing stress.

The impact of neuroticism on relationships

Neuroticism can significantly impact an individual's relationships, both with romantic partners and with friends or family. People with high neuroticism may experience frequent negative emotions, such as anxiety, worry, and depression, which can make it challenging to maintain healthy relationships.

The challenges of managing negative emotions in relationships

Emotional instability may lead to misunderstandings, low intimacy, and conflict. It can be difficult for individuals with high neuroticism to maintain trust and connection with their partners due to their tendency to catastrophize or blow situations out of proportion. Additionally, they might struggle with following through on tasks or commitments due to their anxious thoughts and feelings. As a result, the relationship may have a lack of trust, communication problems, and feelings of disconnection.

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The impact of anxiety and worry on communication and intimacy

When struggling with anxiety or worry, it can be challenging to focus on a partner's needs or listen actively. It may also be tough to remain open and vulnerable in relationships due to the fear of being judged. Individuals with high levels of neuroticism may also have difficulty expressing their needs and feelings, which could limit the potential for forming meaningful connections.

The role of support and understanding from loved ones

It may be necessary for individuals with high neuroticism to have a supportive network of friends and family that can help them manage their emotions. People close to someone with high neuroticism should generally strive to be patient and understanding, as this can make it easier for the individual to feel safe opening up about their struggles. It may also help if loved ones are willing to listen without judgment and offer empathy and support.

How to manage neuroticism

It can be possible to manage the effects of neuroticism through the following methods.

Therapeutic approaches

Therapeutic approaches can be helpful for individuals struggling with high levels of neuroticism. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) may be one type of therapy that could help someone identify and change negative thought patterns, as well as reduce feelings of anxiety, worry, and depression. Other therapies, such as dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), may also help those with neuroticism to manage their negative emotions.

Mindfulness and relaxation techniques

Mindfulness and relaxation techniques, such as meditation and yoga, may help individuals manage their stress levels and reduce anxiety. Practicing these techniques can help individuals develop greater self-awareness, potentially allowing them to better manage their emotions.

Exercise

Incorporating exercise into your weekly routine can positively impact mental health and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Regular physical activity can help individuals manage stress and improve their overall well-being.

Positive thinking

Adopting a positive thinking style can help individuals manage their emotions and reduce the impact of neuroticism. Practicing gratitude, focusing on the present moment, and seeking out positive experiences can help individuals develop a more positive outlook on life.

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Benefits of online therapy

Through therapeutic approaches such as cognitive-behavioral online therapy, individuals can have the opportunity to identify and challenge negative thought patterns, which may help them reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. The ease of connecting with a licensed mental health professional online, rather than meeting up in person, can be especially helpful and comforting for those experiencing neuroticism.

Effectiveness of online therapy

Research has shown that cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help people with neuroticism by focusing on their thoughts and beliefs that may be connected to emotions and behaviors. Online CBT is generally as effective as in-person CBT.

Takeaway

While neuroticism can be a stable personality trait, it may be possible to manage its effects. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive-behavioral online therapy can be effective in treating neuroticism. Additionally, mindfulness and relaxation techniques, exercise, and positive thinking can help individuals manage their emotions and improve their well-being. With the right tools and methods, individuals may learn to manage neurotic tendencies and lead more fulfilling lives.
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