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June 26, 2024

Hyper Independence Test

Kristie Plantinga
,
MA
woman in hijab rakes her lawn; hyper independence test
Guides
June 26, 2024
2 min to read
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Do you often feel the need to go it alone and handle everything yourself? Perhaps you have a hard time asking others for help, even when you're overwhelmed or struggling. 

You're not alone. Many people are hyper-independent. While self-reliance can be an admirable trait, taking it to an extreme can negatively impact your mental health and relationships. 

This quiz will help you reflect on your levels of independence and if an inability to depend on others may be holding you back from living your best life. 

Remember, there is no shame in needing support sometimes. We all need human connection and a circle we can lean on. Read on with an open mind and compassion for yourself.

How accurate is this quiz?

At Best Therapists, we believe that online mental health quizzes can be an excellent first step towards improving our mental health. Quizzes like this one can educate you and provide opportunities for self-reflection, but note that they are not a substitute for professional assessments and diagnoses.

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Your privacy is important to us, so all results are completely anonymous and no email is required.

Examples of hyper-independent scenarios

  • Moving to a new city alone and refusing help from others to assemble furniture, set up utilities, or get settled because you insist on doing absolutely everything yourself.
  • Working overtime frequently and not delegating tasks to coworkers, even when they offer to take something off your plate. You feel you have to do it all yourself.
  • Planning an elaborate event like a wedding or big party and not allowing friends or family members to assist with any of the preparation or setup because you don't want to relinquish control.
  • Injuring yourself but stubbornly refusing help from others with daily tasks like grocery shopping, cleaning, or driving while you recover, even though accepting temporary assistance could allow you to heal more quickly.
  • Struggling with difficult coursework but avoiding study groups, tutoring sessions, or meetings with the professor because you believe you need to comprehend all the material completely on your own.
  • Declining invitations and canceling plans frequently because you feel you have to tackle your personal to-do list and responsibilities all by yourself without anyone's help.
  • Launching a new business solo and refusing to bring on partners or hire employees because you want to maintain full autonomy and control over all operations.

Disclaimer: The scenarios described above are intended to illustrate examples of potential hyper-independent behaviors in everyday situations. However, everyone's circumstances are different. Some level of self-reliance and desire for autonomy can be healthy. Only you can determine what is an appropriate balance for your own life and well-being. If you are experiencing distress, anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns related to difficulty accepting support from others, you should consider consulting a licensed mental health professional for guidance and support tailored to your individual needs.

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Written by
Kristie Plantinga
,
MA

Kristie Plantinga is the founder of Best Therapists. Along with being on the client-side of therapy, Kristie has had the honor of working directly with therapists in her marketing agency for therapists, TherapieSEO. While working alongside therapists, she learned about the inequities in our mental health system that therapists face on a daily basis, and she wanted to do something about it. That’s why Best Therapists is a platform designed to benefit not only therapy-seekers, but therapy providers. Kristie has a Masters degree in Written Communication and a Bachelors degree in Psychology and Music.

Reviewed by
Katelyn McMahon
,
Registered Psychotherapist, VT #097.0134200

Katelyn is a therapist-turned-writer with a passion for mental health. She has a Master's degree in Social Work from the University of England and is a Registered Psychotherapist in the state of Vermont. Katelyn has professional experience in aging care, addiction treatment, integrated health care, and private practice settings. She also has lived experience being on the client side of therapy. Currently, Katelyn is a content writer who’s passionate about spreading mental health awareness and helping other therapists and therapy-seekers Do The Work.

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