In the world of ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) there is daunting amount of information available deciphering the pros and cons of inattention/lack of concentration and hyperactivity/restlessness. But when was the last time a friend of acquaintance wanted to tell you about their impulsive ADHD behavior?
I believe the answer for most is never, or rarely, that is unless you signed up for an all exclusive ADHD impulsivity cruise. But in so many ways impulsivity is the one symptom that when combined with the inability to focus, or that bundle of energy we refer to as hyperactivity, that can really produce serious negative life changing consequences.
Think about it. Isn't it that poorly thought out impulsive action that is most likely to get you into to trouble with the law, your friends, your family, your boss, or your co-workers? Isn't it the driving force that made you abruptly quit your job or say something out of line to your spouse or significant other. Wasn't it the driving force that made you decide missing work or school was a good idea. Yes impulsivity can create many different problems and when combined with either inattention or hyperactivity can open the door for a life full of negative twist and turns.
Five signs of impulsivity in the ADHD adult
*Figuratively speaking societal niceties and patience often go out the window. Examples would be speeding through that redder than red stop light despite knowing the dangers, using your shopping cart a battering ram at your local grocery store or supercenter, and refusing to wait in line at your favorite restaurant or local bank.
*Controlling temper outburst may be a regular problem. There is nothing worse than watching an adult throw a childlike temper tantrum when things don't go their way. This trait is one of the more common ones associated with adults with impulsive ADHD.
*The old food in the mouth trick can be a common occurrence. This can be a symptom with long term negative consequences especially in an office or academic setting. It's not all that great at parties or social setting either.
*Intruding or butting into conversation which you weren't inviting, or are unwanted, all the while not realizing you are doing so.
*Becoming more aggressive and impulsive when alcohol or drugs are involved. Alcohol, drugs, and certain over the counter medications tend to remove what little control the impulsive ADHD personality may over their emotions and/or actions thus increasing the changes of impulsive behavior. The frequency will depend a great deal on the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain at any given time and the type of drug being used. Talk to your doctor for information on this one.
What next?For those adults struggling with impulsive type of ADHD finding an effective treatment option is an important first step. The most common forms of treatment are prescription stimulants such as Ritalin, Adderall and non-stimulant medications such as Intuniv or Strattera. While effective in about seven out of ten cases all stimulant medications come with a number of serious label warnings.
The risk of side effects has prompted many to consider non-prescription options. A couple examples of these are behavior modification therapy and/or natural ADHD homeopathic remedies. Natural remedies for the impulsive type of ADHD are an effective side effect free way to address erratic, and impulsive, behavior and can be used both as a standalone treatment or as a compliment to other non-prescription alternatives. They also have been shown to produce long lasting results just over half of the time.
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