Impulsivity is when a person acts out in behaviors that they may not think through beforehand. Certainly, everyone may make impulsive decisions at some point in their lives. It can be a part of growing up, drastic changes in life, and relationship losses or changes. However, when impulsive behaviors are uncontrollable and happen for a long period of time, this can be a sign of an underlying issue like a mental health condition. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of impulsive behaviors can help people determine whether or not these behaviors are a sign of something more serious that may need addressing.
Doing things that you may have not if you thought about them happens to everyone from time to time. However, making impulsive decisions and not thinking about the consequences of behaviors often can be a sign that something is wrong mentally. Making impulsive decisions on a daily basis can lead to feelings of shame, guilt, and regret.
Some examples of impulsive behaviors that are repetitive and can signify that there may be an underlying mental health issue that stimulates these behaviors can include:
There are certain mental health issues that increase the risk of risky and impulsive behaviors. In the case of acting out impulsively due to mental health issues, a person is typically unable to cease acting impulsively even if they are aware of the consequences. Some examples of mental health issues that may have a pathological association with impulsive behaviors, keeping individuals who are living with these mental health conditions from acting impulsively include:
Fortunately, people who are struggling with impulse control as the result of a developed mental health condition can find and accept help through medical and mental health resources if they’re willing. Treatment can include prescription medications, treatment services, and therapeutic tools that can help to reduce symptoms and provide helpful resources in order to learn how to identify and modify unhealthy behavior.
Different types of treatment, therapy, and medication may be available depending on a person’s symptoms and the mental health issue they are diagnosed with. It’s important to find a mental health treatment facility that is aware of the specific needs of individuals to develop treatment planning that is most beneficial.
If you are finding that your impulsive behavior is negatively affecting your life, your job, or your relationships, it’s time to get help. Treatment and counseling services can help you get better control of your life and behaviors in order to better manage symptoms of your mental health condition, including making impulsive decisions.
Yelowbrick offers outpatient treatment and therapy options for people living with a number of mental health issues. Find out how we can help you by learning more about our facility located in Evanston, Illinois, from our website today.
Yellowbrick collaborates with adolescents and emerging adults, ages 16-30's, their families and participating professionals toward the development and implementation of a strategic “Life Plan.” An integrative, multi-specialty consultation clarifies strengths, limitations, and risks, and defines motivations, goals and choices.
A mental health condition that’s characterized by intense shifts in mood including both manic and depressive episodes.
People living with Major Depressive Disorder, or MDD, experience episodes of depression and sadness that are debilitating to daily life.
Those living with anxiety disorders experience high levels of anxiety and stress that interfere negatively with daily life.
A mental health issue in which a person’s cognitive function is impaired, resulting in symptoms like experiencing challenges with conducting speech, reading and writing, and behavior.
Mental health disorders that negatively affect a person’s behaviors, thought patterns, and function. People diagnosed with these disorders experience challenges with managing relationships and understanding various situations.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is a mental health condition that people can develop as a result of experiencing traumatic situations, characterized by symptoms including flashbacks, avoidance behaviors, and more.
A mental health condition that is characterized by specific symptoms of forgetfulness and lack of concentration, which makes it challenging to complete necessary tasks.
Mental health conditions that interfere with a person’s eating habits, thought patterns, and behaviors in negative ways.
A mental health disorder diagnosable with the DSM-5 that is characterized by both obsessions and compulsive behaviors.