"Impulsive behavior" is a term used to describe when someone takes action without considering the possible outcomes. For instance, shopping without thinking is a common example of impulsive behavior. If not kept under control, impulsive behavior can have negative impacts not only on oneself but also on others.

What is impulsive behavior?

According to a report from WebMD, impulsive behavior is a tendency to act without thinking things through. It involves taking sudden actions without considering the potential risks in the long run. Impulsive behavior is often linked to unfavorable outcomes.

People with impulsive behavior often make hasty, unpredictable decisions and engage in risky behaviors. Besides potentially damaging relationships and well-being, impulsive behavior can also lead to financial and legal problems.

The type of impulsive behavior can vary, depending on the form of expression one desire. Some types of impulsive behavior include:

• Frequently changing or cancelling plans abruptly
• Overspending/excessive shopping
• Discarding or removing items to give a sense of "starting anew"
• Damaging property
• Eating in large quantities and having difficulty resisting food temptations
• Frequent emotional outburst
• Quick to jump to conclusions
• Unable to take criticism
• Frequently in and out of various social groups
• Self-harm
• Over-apologizing/apologize excessively
  
  

Read more: Mengapa Kita Suka Belanja Impulsif Barang Promo? 

Is impulsivity a mental illness?

Impulsive behavior is often considered a form of mental health disorder. However, according to Healthline, it is not actually a mental health problem. Everyone can be impulsive once in a while without causing harm to themselves or others. As people age, they learn to control their impulses better.

When impulsive behavior is repeated, has a certain pattern, is difficult to control, disrupts life, and is accompanied by signs or symptoms of other mental illnesses, impulsive behavior can be associated with mental health disorders. Some mental illnesses that are often associated with mental health disorders include borderline personality disorder (BPD), bipolar disorder, and ADHD.

Causes of impulsive behavior

The main cause of impulsive behavior is not yet known, but experts suspect that impulsive behavior can be the cause, namely:

• Genetic factors

When there is a family history of mental health problems, there is an increased risk of developing impulse control disorder.

• Biological factors

Unusual brain or hormonal activity patterns may play a role in the emergence of impulsive behavior.

• Social and environmental conditions

People who grow up with financial problems, violence and neglect in the family have an increased risk of experiencing problems in impulse control.

• Gender

Males are more likely than females to have impulse control disorders

Read more: Tanda-Tanda Anda Suka Belanja Impulsif

Impulsive behavior management

Untreated impulsive behaviors may have negative impacts on oneself and others. Generally, impulsive behavior can be overcome and controlled.

Some things you can do to control impulsive behavior include:

• Being aware of your impulsive behavior and how it impacts life
• Picture different scenarios in your mind, such as shopping, and practice stopping the urge to do the activity and think before you act.
• Carry a notebook with you everywhere you go to distract your mind and give your thoughts pause before you behave impulsively, by writing, you have the opportunity to think about your actions

If you find that your impulsive behavior is recurring and has affected various aspects of your life, it is recommended that you seek medical help. Psychotherapy and medication can help you control your impulsive behavior.

Impulsive behavior can harm not only oneself but also others. If someone experiences symptoms of impulsive behavior, they should consult a doctor to get the right treatment. If you need medical advice or consultation, you can either visit a doctor or use the consultation features available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.

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