Hyperactive and impulsivity
What does this mean?
Hyperactivity
Hyperactivity is a higher than normal level of activity. It is something that we may all experience from time-to-time and is very commonly experienced by children, particularly during times of high excitement.
However, for some people, hyperactivity is not limited to childhood or times of excitement but can be a constant in their lives.
The main signs of hyperactivity in adulthood are:
- Being unable to sit still, especially in calm or quiet surroundings.
- Constantly fidgeting.
- Being unable to concentrate on tasks (due to moving onto the 'next thing').
- Excessive physical movement.
- Excessive talking.
Impulsivity
Impulsivity is acting without forethought. At times we can all do this and it can even be thought as a positive if someone is seen as 'spontaneous'. However, 'spontaneity' does often carry some forethought - for example you may buy flowers for a partner seemingly out of the blue, yet still have considered their reaction to this and whether you can afford the flowers.
Impulsive people lack this forethought. They can act without thinking, as if on autopilot, and only realise the consequences of this action after an event.
The main signs of impulsiveness in adulthood are:
- Being unable to wait their turn.
- Acting without thinking.
- Interrupting conversations.
- Little or no sense of danger.
Symptoms of both hyperactivity and impulsivity can be brought about temporary chemical changes within the body (such as drug or alcohol use) but can also be innate within a person. Some peoples' neurodevelopment means that they may display these symptoms most of the time.
How does it affect people?
In adult life, symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity can greatly impact people in both their work and social lives. Some of the things people who are hyperactive and impulse may struggle with are:
- Blurting out responses and often interrupting others, feeling they have to say what is on their mind immediately.
- Mood swings, irritability and a quick temper.
- Inability to deal with stress.
- Extreme impatience.
- Taking risks in activities, often with little or no regard for personal safety or the safety of others - for example, driving dangerously.
- Impulsive spending - buying things you don't really want, or don't need, or can't afford.
Being hyperactive or impulsive does not mean that a person does not understand the consequences of their actions, but it does mean that they often are not able to weigh up those consequences prior to acting. This can lead to negative cycles of acting in the ways described above, regretting it, but feeling as though they have limited control to change it in the future. This can negatively impact a person's mental wellbeing.
What strategies might be helpful?
- Let off steam by exercising regularly - this can help with emotional regulation and also channels excess energy.
- Find stimulating ways to relax (perhaps ones which utilise multiple senses). People who are hyperactive and impulsive can still engage in relaxing and sedentary activities but may require co-occurring stimulation to do so.
- Shop with cash only. Leave bank cards at home. This means it is not possible to overspend or impulse buy.
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