We’ve all felt anxiety at some point, but the way it shows up can vary dramatically from one person to another. As an MBTI® practitioner, one of the most common questions I’ve gotten over the past ten years is whether there’s any connection between anxiety and someone’s Myers-Briggs® personality type. I often refrain from answering this, because people tend to take statistics as prescriptions.

For example, if I tell someone that introverts are more likely to have anxiety than extroverts, they may just assume that introverts are anxious in general. But the percentages may be only a small difference between the two sets. And up until now, I hadn’t seen any conclusive research between the 16 personality types and anxiety. So I decided to change that. I wanted to do my own research.

I have a fairly large email list (87k subscribers), and then social media followers, friends, and clients. I sent out a survey to everyone in those groups to try to get as much feedback as possible about how they experience and handle emotions. Of those people, 5,024 filled out my survey.

In the survey, one of the questions I asked was,  “Which 1-3 emotions do you feel the most regularly throughout the day?” They had 21 options ranging from Joy and Calmness to Pessimism and Fear. The goal was to discover how many people of each personality type chose Anxiety. I waited until I had at least 100 responses from each of the 16 types before writing out my conclusions. Today we’re going to dive into those conclusions and see if there are any patterns of anxiety in the 16 types.

Not sure what your personality type is? Take our new personality questionnaire here. Or you can take the official MBTI® here.

The Most to Least Anxious Myers-Briggs® Personality Types

The Survey Results

When asked about the emotions they experienced most regularly, here’s the percentages of each type who chose “Anxiety” from the list of options.

1. ISFJ: 22.73%
2. ISTJ: 20%
3. INFJ: 18.04%
4. INFP: 16.82%
5. INTP: 16.67%
6. ISFP: 14.29%
7. INTJ: 13.52%
8. ESFJ: 13.04%
9. ENFJ: 8.70%
10. ISTP: 8.93%
11. ENTP: 7.94%
12. ESFP: 7.91%
13. ESTP: 7.25%
14. ENFP: 7.00%
15. ENTJ: 6.68%
16. ESTJ: 4.55%

Patterns and Reflections

Before we dive into these numbers, let’s make one thing clear: if your type shows a higher percentage, this doesn’t mean you’re destined to experience anxiety. This survey highlights trends, not certainties. Even the most anxiety-prone types had a larger percentage of individuals who didn’t choose anxiety as one of their primary emotions.

Introversion and Anxiety:

On average, introverts in this survey experience anxiety at a rate of 16.38%, while extroverts experience it at a rate of 7.88%. This means that, based on the survey data, introverts are approximately 207.7% more likely to experience anxiety than extroverts. Why could this be?

Well, first let’s look at the definition of anxiety:

Merriam-Webster defines anxiety as, “apprehensive uneasiness or nervousness usually over an impending or anticipated ill” or “mentally distressing concern or interest.”

Psychology Today states that “anxiety is more common among introverts than extroverts” In general, introverts need more time to decompress, recharge, gather their thoughts, and reflect on their experiences. Regular moments of quiet peace are especially important. It’s possible that the world we live in and all of its external demands creates more stress for introverts than extroverts. Pinging phones, crowded offices, family obligations, and busy classrooms in childhood can all equal an overwhelming amount of stimulus for the introvert. And often introverts feel that their need for quiet and alone time is seen as dismissive or irregular by their extroverted loved ones.

Anxiety also has an inner quality. As Merriam-Webster stated, it’s a “mentally distress concern or interest.” Extroverts tend to be more action-oriented than introverts, jumping into movement right away to engage with the world, people, and experiences. Anxiety, in contrast, tends to be a more inward experience dealing with apprehension, nervousness, and worry. Introverts who are more inner-focused and in touch with their thoughts and reflections, may find that they focus on anxious or worrying thoughts for longer than extroverts, who may leap into action more quickly or deflect anxiety with outward experiences.

With all that in mind, let’s now look at the types most and least likely to experience anxiety based on the survey.

The Most to Least Anxious Myers-Briggs® Personality Types, Ranked

ISFJ: 22.73%

ISFJs take the top spot for anxiety in this survey with the highest percentage of responses. These types like having a sense of routine, stability, and certainty in their lives. Anxiety is often is triggered by resistance to change, which can be a quality of Introverted Sesing (ISxJ) types. Unexpected changes tend to be overwhelming to them, and they especially crave tranquil surroundings. “I feel like the world is too loud,” one ISFJ commented. “I hate smartphones, bright lights, feeling like I have to be busy all the time. I feel like there’s never time to just be.” On top of the sensory overwhelm, ISFJs also tend to feel responsible for the people in their lives. One ISFJ I worked with described it as “trying to keep everyone else afloat while feeling like you’re drowning inside.”

A tip? Set aside time each day just for yourself, whether it’s reading, taking a bath, or enjoying a quiet walk. Make sure it’s on the schedule and prioritized so that you can always count on it.

Find out more about ISFJs: Are ISFJs Rare? A Look at the Protector Personality Type

ISTJ: 20%

ISTJs might seem like the least likely candidates for anxiety at first glance. They’re logical, practical, and often keep their emotions under wraps. But outward appearances can be deceiving, and the outer stoic nature of the ISTJ may be hiding an inner anxiety that lurks under the surface. Like ISFJs, ISTJs like a stable, calm, routine life. If there’s one thing ISTJs dislike, it’s unpredictability. One ISTJ in my survey stated, “We always want to look like we’ve got it together, like nothing fazes us. People can count on us and we like to look competent. But there’s only so much pressure we can take before we pop.”

For ISTJs, anxiety often kicks in when they feel things are slipping out of their control or when they fear they haven’t prepared enough for potential problems.

You might also like: How You Feel About Crying, Based On Your Personality Type

INFJ: 18.04%

INFJs are famous for their empathy and their insight into the human experience. This can be both a blessing and a curse. A blessing in that it allows them to deeply support and care for others, but a curse in that they can “over-absorb” other people’s feelings to the point where they are overstimulated and exhausted. An INFJ friend once told me, “It’s like having 20 browser tabs open in your mind, all of them on autoplay.” This tendency to take on others’ problems as their own can lead to a heightened state of anxiety, especially when they feel responsible for the emotional well-being of everyone around them.

On top of that, INFJs tend to be pattern-seers, noticing how things will play out in the future. At times, this can mean that they sense patterns in cultures and ecosystems that are negative. “I see how AI and global warming will impact the future and I know it’s coming,” one INFJ stated, “but I know there’s nothing that can be done to stop it on my end. So yeah, I feel anxious.” While INFJs may disagree on the future realities they see coming, this tendency to fixate on a future possibility can make them lose touch with the moment. Future-forecasting and anticipating negative scenarios is a key sign of anxiety.

You might also enjoy: The Personality Types Most Likely to Absorb Your Emotions, Ranked

INFP: 16.82%

INFPs are often torn between the world as it is and the world as they wish it could be. INFPs are Idealists, always looking forward to the possibilities that “could be” in the future. They want a world with more equality, compassion, and imagination. But they often feel like the world focuses more on materialism, greed, and outward appearances.

An INFP once explained, “I feel like I’m carrying the weight of the world on my shoulders, even though I know I can’t fix everything.” Another stated, “I struggle with anxiety; I don’t feel like the world around me sees or appreciates my gifts. Everyone around me has always pushed me to be more like my ESFJ sister. I’m too quiet, less organized, clean, ambitious. But they don’t see my creativity, depth, or writing abilities.”

A tip? When anxiety strikes, channel your feelings into creative activities like journaling, drawing, or music. This can help release pent-up emotions and bring a sense of relief and clarity.

Find out more about INFPs: Your INFP Personality Type and Your Enneagram Type

INTP: 16.67%

INTPs are known for their analytical minds and their tendency to live in the world of ideas. However, this constant mental activity can sometimes work against them. They can get caught in loops of overthinking, analyzing every possible outcome to the point of paralysis. Or they may feel overwhelmed by the external demands placed on them by society. INTPs like to take their time, learn, and process information in-depth. The fast world of today with all its distractions and deadlines can be the antithesis to the calm environment INTPs naturally crave. One INTP described their anxiety as “getting lost in a labyrinth of my own making.” Another said, “I am seen as cold or strange when I need time alone and people constantly misunderstand me. But if I try to be as extroverted as the people around me I’m completely drained.”

A tip? Prioritize small breaks to get away by yourself throughout the day. During these moments, focus on grounding your body. Take deep breaths, clench and unclench your joints, stretch, and focus on the present moment. You’ll feel your body start to calm down and your nervous system will feel more regulated as a result.

You might also enjoy: The Epic Hero You’d Be, Based On Your Myers-Briggs Personality Type

ISFP: 14.29%

For ISFPs, anxiety often comes from feeling misunderstood or trapped in situations that stifle their need for freedom and creativity. One ISFP confided, “I feel anxious when I can’t do what I love to ‘make it’ in the world. When I have to mask my true nature and conform.” When ISFPs don’t feel they can really be present in the moment and in touch with their creative side or their values, life starts to feel overwhelming. Having to spend a lot of time planning for the future, dealing with conflicts, or adhering to a rigid routine can be deeply stressful.

You might also enjoy: Here’s the Social Norm That Confuses You, Based On Your Myers-Briggs Personality Type

INTJ: 13.52%

INTJs may appear calm and collected on the outside, but their inner world is a bustling hub of strategy and long-term planning. Their anxiety often stems from a fear of failure or not living up to their own high standards. An INTJ once shared with me, “I feel most anxious when I think I might have missed a critical detail that could affect my plans. My low Se (Extraverted Sensing) means that the fine details can really undermine me.” They are often their harshest critics, and this internal pressure can lead to bouts of anxiety when they fear they haven’t prepared enough for life’s complexities.

A tip for INTJs? INTJs often feel anxious about not being productive. Give yourself permission to unwind without a specific goal in mind. Watch a show, read fiction, or daydream. Often during these low-stress, calm moments, you can get your best ideas and epiphanies!

You also might enjoy: The 5 Things You Crave in a Friendship, Based On Your Myers-Briggs Personality Type

ESFJ: 13.04%

ESFJs are natural hosts and givers, with a desire to create community and harmony around them. They feel anxious when their stability is threatened or there is any kind of interpersonal conflict. “I start shaking if I think my family or friends are mad at me,” one ESFJ commented, “it’s like I can’t rest till everyone’s on good terms.” This constant vigilance in maintaining a positive environment can be exhausting and lead to feelings of anxiety, particularly when they feel powerless to help those they care about.

A tip? Practice saying “no” when you’re feeling stretched too thin. And repeat the mantra, “I am not responsible for everyone else’s feelings. I’m only responsible for my own.” Learn to let go and breathe when you feel that there could be conflict on the horizon.

Find out more about ESFJs: 5 Strengths You Bring to a Friendship, Based On Your Personality Type

ISTP: 8.93%

ISTPs are the least anxious of the introverted personality types. They don’t let emotions rule their lives, but they can still experience anxiety, particularly when they feel cornered or trapped by circumstances they can’t control. An ISTP once remarked, “I get anxious when I feel like I have no options or way out.” Their anxiety is often linked to a fear of losing their independence or being forced into long-term commitments they’re not ready for. Another ISTP commented, “I take life as it comes, but if I’m stuck I a controlling situation or I can’t have autonomy I feel anxious and boxed in.”

A tip? ISTPs can feel anxious when they’re stuck in one place or situation for too long. Taking short, frequent breaks can help you to feel less trapped and caged in. Incorporate short, frequent breaks into your day to move around, whether it’s a walk outside or a quick game of solitaire.

ENFJ: 8.70%

ENFJs “Mentors” are deeply attuned to the emotions of others. They put intense pressure on themselves to be a guiding force and a source of support. My ENFJ sister, for example, tends to say “Yes” to every request for help or support. This can sometimes mean that she overextends herself and winds up with little time to reflect or rest. This over-giving tendency is common among ENFJs and can lead to anxiety and pent-up frustration. An ENFJ who took the survey confided, “I feel anxious when I think I’m not doing enough to help others.” This tendency to shoulder others’ burdens can lead to burnout and anxiety. Conflict or criticism can further exacerbate anxious thoughts, with ENFJs sometimes feeling they’re not good enough unless they’re making everyone else happy.

A tip for ENFJs? When feeling anxious, remind yourself that you don’t have to carry everyone else’s burdens. Breathe deeply, stretch, close your eyes and visualize a favorite place that gives you peace. Practice the art of letting go of the expectations of others. It might feel like it will never work, but with repeated practice, you can improve your mindset and your stress levels.

ENTP: 7.94%

ENTPs are natural debaters and thrive on exploring new ideas and possibilities. They generally approach life with a curious and optimistic mindset, which might explain their lower percentage of anxiety. However, when they do experience anxiety, it often comes from feeling stifled or being forced into a routine that limits their creativity. One ENTP shared, “I feel anxious when I think I’m stuck in a box with no way out.” Another stated, “My job is really by-the-book and predictable. I have no opportunities to let my Ne (Extraverted Intuition) roam freely. I start to feel like I’m wasting my life and that’s where my anxiety comes from.” Their fear of being trapped in monotonous or overly structured situations can trigger anxious feelings and gloom.

A tip for ENTPs? Intentionally schedule some unstructured time each week where you don’t have to accomplish anything. Let yourself take a walk, free association journal, or follow your curiosity wherever it leads.

ESFP: 7.91%

While ESFPs generally seem carefree, they can still experience anxiety, particularly when their freedom is restricted or they feel like they’re missing out on life’s experiences. One ESFP described it as “feeling like the party is happening somewhere, and I’m stuck in the wrong room.” Another ESFP friend of mine says she only experiences anxiety when the lights are out and she’s trying to sleep. The inability to be active and the absence of stimulation allows her imagination to dredge up negative possibilities or feelings that she’s failed somehow at various parts of her life. For ESFPs, anxiety can be tied to how trapped they feel, how scheduled their lives are, or moments where they don’t have anything to distract them from negative feelings they haven’t been able to process.

A tip for ESFPs? When you feel caged in and overwhelmed, get outside, even if only for a moment. Breathe in the fresh air, look for something beautiful, move your body and get a quick spurt of exercise. Just getting outside of four walls can help reduce stress. And if you find yourself getting anxious when negative thoughts bubble up at night, write down those concerns briefly in a journal and then look at them the next day to see whether or not you still feel they are worth your energy. Many times we feel more anxious at night; some concerns do warrant attention and others may just be brought up on by fatigue.

ESTP: 7.25%

ESTPs tend to roll with the punches of life, seeing challenges as opportunities rather than triggers of real fear. Yet even they can experience anxiety. Usually this happens when they feel like they’re caged in by life’s demands and they’re not able to move freely anymore. Restrictive jobs, controlling relationships, and heavy planning can all put them in a state of stress. An ESTP once said, “Anxiety is like being told to stay still while I have the urge to move.” Their anxiety often revolves around feeling trapped or unable to act when they see an issue. Having to spend a lot of time focused on the future can also make them feel frustrated and anxious, like they can’t predict but are being forced to.

A tip? When anxiety hits, practice deep breathing exercises. Take slow, deep breaths in through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and exhale slowly through your mouth. Take a breather outside, and make sure to set boundaries with people in your life who are trying to control too much. Make sure you’re getting regular breaks for unstructured free time.

ENFP: 7%

ENFPs are possibility seekers with an eye for potential and transformation. This optimistic, idea-generating nature I think contributes to their lower rates of anxiety. When life gets hard, they can quickly brainstorm a solution. Tough days can inspire them to dream about better days and ideas that could keep the gloom at bay. That said, sometimes ENFPs take on too much. They have so many ideas that their schedules are always chock full and they never feel like they can get enough done. Their dreams keep multiplying, but they still have the same 24 hours in a day that we all have. This can lead to anxiety where they feel they’re perpetually missing out on their full potential. An ENFP friend once said, “I feel anxious when I think about all the things I want to do and worry that I won’t have enough time.”

A tip for ENFPs? Keep an “idea/worry journal” where you jot down your anxious thoughts or all the ideas that keep popping into your head. Sometimes, putting these thoughts on paper can help you gain perspective, feel less scattered, and remind you that your ideas will always be there waiting for you.

Find out more about ENFPs: The Learning Styles of Every Personality Type

ENTJ: 6.68%

For ENTJs, when plans don’t go as expected or when they feel like they’re not in control, anxiety can creep in. They hate feeling out of control, undermined, or incompetent. An ENTJ from the survey shared, “Anxiety for me is that gnawing feeling that I’m not doing enough, fast enough.” ENTJs often place high expectations on themselves, carrying a lot of responsibilities with very little time. They may also become anxious when they ignore taking care of their relationships and feelings. For example, when ENTJs don’t take care of their relationships, they may experience tension in those relationships as a result. Because this is an area that can feel more overwhelming for them, they may put it off until problems escalate and become even more unnerving.

A tip for ENTJs? Schedule some unstructured time in your week. It may feel counterintuitive, but allowing yourself to relax and unwind without a specific goal in mind can be incredibly beneficial. And set an alarm on your phone or calendar to check in on the people you love once every couple of days. Whether this means sending a text, making a phone call, or buying someone a coffee, small gestures like these will add up.

ESTJ: 4.55%

ESTJs are efficient and pragmatic, with clear plans for most situations. But like anyone, they can still experience the familiar edge of anxiety. This tends to happen when their plans go awry or when life feels out of their control. One ESTJ commented, “Anxiety is not an issue with me unless I’m dealing with incompetent, lazy people.” When they face situations they can’t control or when their plans fall apart, they will try to immediately “fix” the situation, but if the situation remains unfixable, anxiety can definitely set in.

A tip for ESTJs? Try to embrace imperfections—acknowledge that sometimes plans will change, and that’s part of life. By practicing flexibility, you can reduce your anxiety over situations that are beyond your control.

What Do You Think?

Anxiety doesn’t discriminate; it can affect anyone, regardless of personality type. While some types in this survey reported experiencing anxiety more frequently, it’s important to remember that these patterns are just that—patterns, not rules. Whether you’re an ISFJ who worries about meeting everyone’s needs, an ENTJ striving for control and success, or an ENFP who feels anxious about not fulfilling every possibility, know that you’re not alone.

Have any thoughts or experiences you’d like to share? Let us and other readers know in the comments! Discover even more about your personality type in our eBooks, Discovering You: Unlocking the Power of Personality Type,  The INFJ – Understanding the Mystic, The INTJ – Understanding the Strategist, and The INFP – Understanding the Dreamer. You can also connect with me via Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter!