By Stephen Propst
In addition to seeking professional help, you can take control of impulsivity in other ways. Here are 6 ways to get a grip on impulse.
So, how do you begin to get a handle on impulsivity? At minimum, talk with your doctor or therapist. This may present another challenge, as impulsivity often involves embarrassing symptoms that neither you, nor your doctor, may be comfortable talking about. Sometimes doctors are hesitant to burden patients with heavy labels, like “alcoholic” or “sex addict.” And, because they know that merely prescribing a pill can’t resolve these often deep-seated issues, they won’t address them, unless you do. If broaching the subject is difficult, use this article as a bridge to get the conversation started.
In addition to seeking professional help, you can take control of impulsivity in other ways. Let me give you A START.
1) Acknowledge and accept.
First and foremost, you must admit that a problem exists and must be addressed.
2) Seek support.
Attend a support group — from DBSA to AA or NA — based on what you’re confronting.
3) Tame triggers.
Guard against what you know provokes the impulsive behavior.
4) Adjust attitude.
Adopt a new, healthy and positive mindset toward tackling the problem.
5) Repair and replace.
Repair past damage, and replace old habits and bad relationships with healthy ones.
6) Tackle therapeutically.
Take an active role in therapy, be transparent and get to the root of underlying issues.
Managing impulsivity often requires putting particular precautions in place. It helps to have an agreed-upon plan with family/friends or with your doctor/therapist. Depending on your impulsive tendencies, you may have to restrict or closely monitor Internet usage, arrange for safekeeping or supervision of credit cards, ATM cards or even car keys, or even put a Power of Attorney into place.
Taking control of impulsivity is essential. When you don’t learn to control impulsivity, it can absolutely come to control you. And, thinking there’s nothing you can do about it only increases the likelihood that the situation will remain “as is.”
The choices we make have consequences and sometimes lifelong implications. If you live with bipolar disorder and face a problem with impulsive behavior, it’s time to get A START on dealing with it. That’s one decision you don’t have to think about twice.
* UPPS Impulsive Behavior Scale (Whiteside and Lynam, 2001)
Used by permission.