Impulsivity by Robyn Tamanaha, LMFT
What is it?
Impulsivity is a quick action or behavior driven by an in-the-moment need, urge, or desire. The focus is on the here-and now and little to no attention is given to what will happen in the future, whether immediately after or much later. This is a common symptom of bipolar disorder. Individuals often find that when they’re experiencing impulsivity, they’re in a manic or hypomanic episode.
What does it look like?
Impulsivity can look different for each individual and each individual will express their impulsivity in different ways. It’s also a continuum, meaning that some impulsive behaviors and actions will cause more impact or damage than others. People in the individuals life may view these behaviors or actions as risky, irrational, or extreme (Mood Disorder Questionnaire, RMA Hirschfield).
Ultimately, impulsivity is making a quick decision without fully thinking it through. Individuals may think about their impulsive action after the fact, which can lead to mixed feelings, including guilt and regret. After the episode the individual may wonder why they did what they did because if they were not in an episode, they may not have done that action, or their action may have impacted others around them, which then leads the individual to feel regret or embarrassment.
Things to consider for individuals who experience impulsivity:
Who are your safe and supportive people?
Are there signs that impulsivity is brewing?
What are you own ways of expressing impulsivity and how does it show itself?
The best preparation happens when an individual is not in an episode and includes identifying previous impulsive actions/behaviors, creating a game plan for when impulsivity returns, increasing confidence in using the game plan, and problem solving through any foreseeable challenges. Notice that I wrote “when” impulsivity returns. The return of episodes is a part of living with bipolar disorder, impulsivity included. Your next thought might be, “So why work on it?” A huge factor is managing the symptoms so that over time, when the symptoms do occur, they’re less severe and don’t impact the person’s life as much. An individual who gets to know themselves, identifies when they need to pump the brakes, and practices managing symptoms in effective ways can live successfully.
You don’t have to do this alone. I specialize in treating bipolar disorder. If you are interested in receiving therapy with me, let’s schedule a free 15-minute phone consult.
My office is located in Irvine, which is near Newport Beach, Orange, Fountain Valley, Costa Mesa, Anaheim, Huntington Beach, Mission Viejo, Laguna Niguel, Aliso Viejo, Laguna Hills, Tustin, Seal Beach, and beyond. I work with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and Asian American & Pacific Islanders.
Disclaimer: This information is being provided to you for educational and informational purposes only. The topics being discussed are meant as a self-help tool for you own use. It is not psychotherapy or counseling. This information is to be used based on your own judgment. If you need to speak with a professional, you should find one local to you and contact them directly.