It looks like personality may affect health, according to some UCLA researchers. Introverts are more likely to get sick than extroverts , the theory being that introverts are more sensitive to stress, making them release more norepinephrine, a chemical released in times of stress that weakens the immune system. The definition of “introvert” is difficult to define when applied to the range of human personalities, and the article seems to assume that “shy” and “sensitive” are synonymous with “introvert,” but it’s never been my definition.

Consider what recharges you–being alone or being in a group of people, and there’s your answer. I consider myself an introvert, even though I love going to parties, socializing, seeing friends. But for me, too much of it exhausts me. If I don’t get some time alone with a book or my computer, I feel off. (But then again, too much time alone without social interaction makes me generally overly-excited when I get back to socializing, so go figure.)

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