Why type A personalities are more successful in life but also some of the most stressed and depressed

• Type A personalities are typically driven, ambitious, successful, and may even live longer.
• But, they are also more stressed and prone to depression, anxiety, and relationship problems.
• Type A personalities can try to be happier by practicing more patience with themselves and others.

You've probably heard the term "type A" at some point, whether it was used to describe a character on your favorite show, or suggested to describe you.

The type A personality — also sometimes referred to as "The Director" — is known for being competitive, driven, hardworking, and impatient, says neuropsychologist Sanam Hafeez, PhD, and director of Comprehend the Mind.

People with this personality tend to work at a more urgent pace, and their self-worth is often strongly dependent on their achievements.

Type A is not recognized by the DSM-V and therefore, there's no official way to medically diagnose a person as type A, or otherwise.

Rather, type A is a colloquial term used to describe certain personality types over others, like types B, C, and D.

If you're curious about which personality type — or types — you might be, read on for expert insight into the pros and cons of each.

Recognizing the 4 personality types

The type A personality was coined by cardiologists Meyer Friedman and Ray Rosenman in the 1950s, based on observations about certain cardiac patients who they believed may be prone to heart disease due to certain traits.

Many studies were then conducted in the '60s and '70s to examine this connection, but recent research has failed to find a conclusive link. Since then, many personality questionnaires and assessments have emerged, popularizing the idea of the following four different personality types:

• Type A aka "The Director"
• Type B aka "The Socializer"
• Type C aka "The Thinker"
• Type D aka "The Supporter"

None of these personalities are better or worse — each type has its own unique strengths. And most people are a blend of multiple types.

Whether or not each type is successful depends on the environment they're in since each has its own specific needs, says Yalda Safai, MD, MPH, a psychiatrist in private practice.

In fact, a large 2017 study found employees whose personality traits are closely aligned with their job requirements are more likely to earn more than employees whose traits are less aligned. For example, a person with type A personality might thrive more in a fast-paced, deadline-driven career, according to Safai, whereas someone with a type B personality might perform better in a job where there's more flexibility and a laid-back environment.

All that said, here's what to know about the most common traits of each type, according to Hafeez and Safai:

Type A

• Ambitious
• Impatient
• Competitive
• Organized
• Highly goal-oriented

With a take-charge attitude, a sense of urgency to their work, and an ability to multitask, Hafeez says type A personalities make great leaders.

Type B

• Easygoing, "go with the flow" nature
• Adaptable to change
• Creative/visionary
• Tendency to procrastinate
• Relationship-oriented

The type B personality is known as a dreamer with big ideas that can get along with just about anyone, says Hafeez — and they have a knack for connecting with other people.

Type C

• Analytical
• Detail-oriented
• Rational
• Conscientious
• Values accuracy

This personality type is known for making prudent decisions based on research and facts rather than emotion, says Hafeez, which is why they're excellent at problem-solving.

Type D

• Dependable
• Cautious
• Value stability, dislike change
• Compassionate
• Shy or withdrawn in social situations

You can always count on someone with a type D personality to deliver on their promises and commitments — they're consistent because they expect the same from others, according to Safai. They also don't tend to get bored doing the same tasks over and over, which allows them to perfect certain skills through repetition.

Benefits of having a type A personality

There are many advantages to the type A personality. Here are a few worth noting:

• Superior performance in school: A 2019 study found that type A personality college students scored higher on academic achievement tests compared to type B personality students. Researchers note that this may be because type A folks are associated with being hardworking, self-motivated, and goal-driven.
• Work well under pressure: According to Better U Chief Medical Officer Sam Zand, MD, type As can handle stress well, and are able to confidently and quickly execute decisions. That means they can function well during a crisis or high-pressure situation.
• Potential for more success: A 2012 study found that people who scored more highly on conscientiousness via a questionnaire were likely to be successful, not only financially but also in terms of life satisfaction. Conscientiousness is a trait that's marked by efficiency, persistence, and determination — all things a type A personality is known for.
• Longevity: A 2011 review found that higher levels of conscientiousness are associated with a longer lifespan. Researchers suggested this may be because conscientiousness entails a certain self-discipline and has been linked to healthy behaviors like maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and abstaining from smoking, alcohol, and substance abuse.

Downsides to a type A personality

While type As might be more successful and live longer, there are also some drawbacks to this personality type.

Here are some of the common weak spots for the type A personality — plus tips on how to improve in those areas:

Higher risk of anxiety and depression

Researchers are still exploring how personality may impact mental health. However, a small 2011 study of college students found a link between type A personality and anxiety and depression symptoms.

According to Safai, this may be because type As have a tendency to be perfectionists who push themselves too hard and struggle to feel satisfied with their work or achievements.

How to improve: Celebrating small wins and acknowledging your efforts even when things don't go as planned can go a long way in boosting your mood and motivation.

If that doesn't help manage anxiety or depression try journaling, relaxation techniques, socializing with loved ones, and other coping tools.

If you continue to struggle, Safai says to reach out to a licensed mental health professional for help.

Potential relationship problems

Type As can come across as impatient and irritable, especially when someone else is posing an obstacle to achieving their goals, says Zand — and this can obviously cause issues in both personal and professional relationships.

A 2011 study found a link between college students with type A personalities and symptoms of social dysfunction, especially in those who demonstrated signs of aggression.

How to improve: When you start to feel annoyed, angry, or frustrated, Hafeez recommends taking a pause to identify what's causing this feeling, and trying to identify a gentle but direct way to express that emotion.

Stress

Experts say putting too much pressure on yourself to succeed or work at a faster pace can cause stress, which then may lead to negative health consequences.

A 2012 study found that subjects who exhibited behaviors typical of a type A personality had double the risk of a stroke compared to those who didn't show these behaviors. That makes sense when you consider that a large 2015 study found job stress is linked to an increased risk of stroke.

Moreover, chronically high levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, can lead to anxiety, gastrointestinal problems, and high blood pressure, says Zand.

How to improve: Safai recommends using exercise, meditation, and deep breathing exercises to help you manage stress.

Domineering in groups

When it comes to team projects at work or in school, Hafeez says type As may be more inclined to take charge in a way that can be intimidating or off-putting to others.

How to improve: She recommends practicing taking a backseat and relinquishing control so others can have a voice — in time, you may be surprised to find that there are other ways to accomplish a task efficiently.

Insider's takeaway

Having a type A personality isn't inherently good or bad — like all other personality types, it comes with both pros and cons.

On the plus side, you may find that your drive, work ethic, and ability to multitask even while under pressure may help you to achieve your personal and professional goals. However, you may need to be mindful of how you manage stress and practice self-care to protect your mental health.

Remember: While you may not be able to change your core personality, experts agree it's possible to improve certain aspects of your character in order to live a healthier, happier life.