ISTJ Under Stress

When an ISTJ is under stress, they can become bored and tired. Continued stress can make them come to a complete halt, as they are unsure how to continue when an event becomes overwhelming. In such cases, the person can become withdrawn and focus even more on the details of the stressor without actually resolving it, which can lead to further stress.

Externally, people may see the ISTJ as becoming over-demanding, such as if a job project has become too much and the person has focused on nothing but the project, demanding others give the same attention to it. They can also seem irritable, inflexible, and impatient. This can turn people away from them when they are stressed, which can also make his or her situation worse due to a lack of socialization that may be helpful.

When they realize that the reactions they have presented during a stressful time have been pushing others away, they can begin to shut down. Fatigue can be the result of such a response. An ISTJ may also have problems with sleeplessness and a loss of appetite, which will also further stress and fatigue them. These problems can increase the initial issues of irritability and impatience with others, and that can lead to a further feeling of abandonment. They may find themselves stuck in a vicious circle of events all caused by an initial stressor.

It is important to realize the actual size of the stressful event and take steps to remain calm and trust others to help in working through the event.