INTP and Substance Use: Personal Insights and Observations

As an INTJ-INTP-INXX, I have personal experience with substance use from my teenage and college days in the 1960s and early 1970s. My experience with drug abuse is quite different from what one might expect. Having tried almost every drug category, I've since analyzed and reflected on their impacts on individuals with an INTJ or INTP personality type.

INTP and Stimulants

My experiences with stimulants like cocaine, MDMA, and others revealed a unique perspective. My brain is already frenetic with a thousand thoughts per second, and these drugs only added to the chaos. In low doses, I remained largely unaffected, but in high doses, they became overwhelming. Instead of making me more sociable, they disconnected me from the world. I would skip conversations, growing bored after the first sentence and acting antisocial, a trait opposite to what these drugs aim to achieve.

From personal observations, an INTP with low self-esteem might find these drugs attractive for the constant reassurance they provide. Similarly, a sociopathic INTP might be particularly vulnerable, as negative traits could be amplified under the influence, leading to a more selfish and ignorant behavior.

INTP and Opioids

Opioids provided a sense of calm that our brains craved. They were a double-edged sword: socially, they made us less engaging due to reduced anxiety and better composed demeanor, yet turbulent personalities might find them an escape from reality. When younger and more turbulent, brief periods of opioid use turned my life into an ironic meme, a break from reality that was liberating yet ultimately harmful in the long term.

Though opioids helped block out negative thoughts, their use should be a last resort, as one should be able to manage pain and overwhelming thoughts naturally. An emergency Xanax is the extent of my current justification for using any pain relief.

INTP and Alcohol

Alcohol, as depicted by the character Rick Sanchez from Rick and Morty, showed how the INTP personality type uses it for temporary relief and socializing. However, alcohol doesn't keep us on the couch; rather, it encourages us to engage more with society, albeit in our own wild and imaginative ways. This drug can enhance our expressive nature and make us more open about our thoughts and theories.

While useful in social settings, I see alcohol as a potential enabler for turbulent INTPs who might struggle to cope with their feelings. Despite the benefits, alcohol can also lead to dependence, which is detrimental to personal growth and mental health.

INTP and Psychedelics

Psychedelics offer a mind-bending experience that can last months. These drugs temporarily change our perspective, providing another voice in our heads that can bring out suppressed thoughts. While fascinating, they aren't addictive due to their intense impact. I believe moderate use can be beneficial, teaching us valuable life lessons and giving us new perspectives, but users need to ensure they are in a safe environment.

INTP and Dissociatives

Dissociatives, particularly ketamine, have a unique appeal. Small doses can enhance our wit and conversation, while a K-hole, though feared by many, can provide profound, enlightening experiences. I consider ketamine a safe and enjoyable drug that can complement other smoother experiences, offering a blend of opiate-like effects and psychedelic trips. However, I recommend careful use and a supportive environment.

Conclusion

I believe that while INTPs are open-minded enough to benefit from substance use, it's important to use drugs wisely and with caution. The risks, especially for turbulent INTPs, outweigh the benefits. My current approach is to use drugs only for emergencies or exceptional circumstances, prioritizing mental health and personal growth. Substance use should not control one's life; rather, it should enhance it in a meaningful way.