Impulsivity, or recklessness, is common with bipolar and can range from refreshing spontaneity to catastrophic risk-taking. Fortunately, this complex symptom can be mitigated.

Everyone has jumped to conclusions, gotten whisked away by a wild idea, or blurted out something they later regretted. However, with Bipolar Disorder, the tendency to leap without looking or speak without thinking is more prominent — and can be potentially damaging or even dangerous.

Recklessness is a common symptom of Bipolar, and it can emerge in the midst of mood episodes and during periods of stability. Acting without considering the consequences is easy to overlook or chalk up to personality rather than symptomology.

If impulse control is complicating your life, consider putting these helpful suggestions into practice.

1. Acknowledge and Accept

First and foremost, you need to be aware of Impulsivity and admit that this symptom of bipolar usually causes problems and must be addressed.

If you don’t learn to control impulsivity, it absolutely can come to control you. The good news is that you can actively work to mitigate this otherwise confusing and sporadic symptom — once you acknowledge and accept the reality of its existence. (As with most other concerns, thinking there’s nothing you can do about it only increases the likelihood that the situation will remain “as is” or possibly worsen.)

2. Adjust Your Attitude

Embrace a new, positive, and healthy mindset towards this challenge. You have the power to overcome low impulse control by understanding the importance of self-discipline.

Start with small steps: if you consistently practice managing yourself and become more disciplined in your daily routines, like setting a regular sleep schedule or managing time effectively, you’ll strengthen your ability to exercise self-control when faced with impulsive urges. This gradual build-up of discipline in everyday life acts as a foundation, helping you tap into self-control more readily when impulsivity strikes.

3. Seek Support

Rather than struggling alone with your impulses and the emotions they stir up, you can discuss irrational impulses with your doctor or therapist.

Additionally, consider joining a support group — whether it’s the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA), Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), or Sex Addicts Anonymous (SAA) — tailored to your specific challenges. Each group offers a unique space to share and learn from others who understand what you’re going through. Always remember, reaching out to someone you trust for help isn’t a sign of weakness, but a brave and important step towards managing your bipolar disorder more effectively.

4. Put Precautions in Place

Effectively managing impulsivity often involves being vigilant about situations that can trigger reckless behavior. It’s beneficial to develop a plan in collaboration with your family, friends, doctors, or therapists. This plan is a proactive way to safeguard yourself from impulsive actions. Depending on your specific tendencies, you might need to take steps like limiting or monitoring your internet usage, arranging for someone you trust to oversee your use of credit cards, ATM cards, or car keys, or even considering the establishment of a power of attorney.

These measures aren’t restrictions, but empowering strategies to help you maintain control and make mindful decisions, reflecting your commitment to managing your bipolar disorder responsibly.

5. Restrict or Monitor Internet Use

By being mindful and reducing your online activities, you can steer clear of those virtual impulsive triggers, like shopping, gambling, or viewing adult content. It’s also a good strategy to pause before sharing, posting, or replying to something online that might spark controversy. If you tend to act impulsively in these fast-paced, online environments, try to cultivate a habit of pausing before hitting send.

A practical approach is to save your posts or messages in a ‘draft folder’ and revisit them after a day or two. This delay allows you time to reflect and decide if it’s something you truly want to share. This method not only helps manage impulsivity but also promotes more considerate and responsible online communication, aligning your actions with your long-term goals and values.

6. Tame the Triggers of Mania

Given that hypomania and mania intensify impulsivity, it becomes crucial for you to be vigilant about your specific triggers for mania. Striving for a steady practice of mindfulness can be incredibly beneficial in this regard. It equips you with the awareness to recognize potential triggers that could spark intense emotions, potentially leading to impulsive behavior.

Being mindful helps you to stay grounded and react in a more measured way, reducing the risk of being swept away by the moment. This ongoing attention to your mental state is not just about preventing impulsive actions; it’s about nurturing a deeper understanding of yourself and maintaining balance in your life.

UPDATED: Originally posted November 27, 2016

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