Impulsivity is has been defined as unplanned and spontaneous reaction to internal or external stimuli, without giving thought to the outcome or consequences of the behavior in the end. Everyone is impulsive to a certain degree. However, people with ADD or ADHD have a tendency to have a higher rate of reacting impulsively.

The level of impulsivity can fluctuate individually, depending on many different factors. Factors that cause an increased impulsivity, may include but are not limited to the following reason’s, lack of sleep, eating too much sugar, or drinking too much caffeine, forgetting to take one’s ADD medication or not getting enough exercise. Impulsivity can not only cause negative problems at school, home or the work place, but can lead to legal troubles when impulsivity is not controlled.

There are ways one can help keep his or her impulsivity in check. When you are feeling impulsive tell yourself to S-T-O-P and picture a red stop sign in your head, now write down you idea on paper. When you have finished writing, reread what you wrote aloud. Then ask yourself if the idea is too silly or dangerous. If you find the idea is acceptable then think through what you want to do.

In reality, everyone is impulsive to a degree. Impulsivity amongst children and teens with ADD or ADHD tends to be more spontaneous and dramatic, and this can lead to one making a dangerous choice, without considering the outcome or consequences.Impulsivity is a greater danger to those with ADD, ADHD, and Bipolar issues.

People without ADD or ADHD tend to be able to determine when the impulsivity is placing them in an unsafe situation, and they listen to the voices inside that tell them to slow down and rethink what you are about to do.

Impulsivity is also seen in meetings and classrooms across America and for those who are ADD or ADHD or Bipolar they have a hard time not talking out of turn and will often blurt out ideas or answers without first thinking it fully through to see if it is credible or corny. If this sounds familiar, here are some ideas for you to consider. The next time you want to shout out an idea in a meeting, S-T-O-P, and talk a drink of water and rethink or write out your idea on paper before presenting it to the group. If after rereading your idea, you feel it is sound then tell the group what you are thinking.

Impulsivity is a trait that can cause ADD or ADHD Bipolar people great difficulties in life, at home, at work, at school, and with friends, unless he or she learns to recognize and rethink what is happening. By slowing down and thinking thorough every action and the possible consequences one can learn to be safe.

Learning how to slow what you are thinking so you can process all the way through any action you are about to take is hard at first, but with practice it can be very success. Do you have problems with impulsivity and making reckless and dangerous decisions? Join us in ADD free forum and tell us what you need help with when it comes to impulsivity.