Hyper-Independence As A Trauma Response: How To Heal And Reconnect

hyper-independence
Image Credit: Pexels/ Alex Green

Hyper-independence is an extreme show of independence. It is when a person lives in a bubble that screams that they are more than enough. While being independent is healthy for self-growth, overconfidence in one’s self isn’t.

How Do People Become Hyper-Independent

A hyper-independent person has gone through past trauma, heartbreak, or loss in the past. Unfortunately, during these tough situations, they couldn’t depend on anyone. Once they are able to go through such challenges, they unconsciously become more confident. This makes them less needy. To shut out any possible hurt or past trauma, they take on a new skin.

Signs Of Hyper-Independence

There are varying degrees of hyper-independence. Its intensity also depends on the individual. However, what is considered as the signs may come off as being a principled person. But a much closer look would show that there may be a problem. Hyperindependent people always:

Feel The Need to Assert Their Independence

Such individuals may feel an urge to take on more tasks than necessary. To them, it reaffirms their belief in themselves.

Show Mistrust and Paranoia

Nobody is off the radar— whether good or bad. Hyper-independent people read meaning to a person’s every move. This leads them to disconnect from the person. Thereby thinning out their social circle.

They Hate To Need Things

Since they trust in their abilities, having to ask for help is a struggle. They also extend this to people who ask for things.

They Are Not Easily Convinced

Hyper-independence leaves one with a solid resolve. It is always difficult to convince them otherwise unless they key into that idea.

How To Heal From Hyper-Independence

Having established that hyper-independence is a reaction to past trauma, it is best to resolve it. Failure to do so once it has been discovered may lead to lifelong problems. This includes loneliness in old age and a lack of solid friendships with people.

Seek Professional Help

Once a person is aware of this mental state of mind seeking a certified professional is the next best thing. Due to their years of practice and knowledge of mental health they provide a way out. Seeking help also proves that a hyper independent person is willing to depend on another.

Practice Saying No

Due to hyper independence, a person may feel the need to be the problem solver at all times. They would also task themselves with work overload. This is often their way to show that they are more than enough and can take on whatever stress.

Always Ask

Change the “do it alone” mindest. Humans need social connections to survive and no one is an island. Failure to ask for help can lead to grave mistakes and regrets.

Work On Developing Trust

Not everyone is the villain. Learn to be less hyper when scrutinizing people. This doesn’t mean that all guards are let down. It just shows that there is a level of trust that has been built over time. When people act disappointing in their actions, they know that it is a part of life. Don’t give up the freedom of trust due to past errors.

Share Responsibilities

No one has died from asking others to do things. Doing things all alone can take a toll on one’s mental capacity and physical health. Refuse jobs when it’s not convenient. But most importantly trust that people can handle the duties well enough too.

Final Note

In a bid to open up and become less independent, be careful not to overtrust. Try to find emotional balance and be open to accepting betrayal, and mistakes.

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