Fact 8: Impulsive Behaviors
Impulsivity, for those with BPD, is not about occasional reckless decisions; it’s a recurrent pattern that permeates various life domains. This might manifest as spontaneous spending sprees, risky sexual encounters, substance misuse, or even binge-eating. These actions, often regretted later, are rarely premeditated and can have serious repercussions on health, relationships, and overall well-being.
While everyone might make impulsive choices now and then, for individuals with BPD, it’s a chronic struggle. These behaviors aren’t driven by a love for adventure or spontaneity; instead, they often arise from a need to escape emotional pain or fill a void. The temporary rush or distraction these actions provide offers a fleeting respite from their emotional turbulence.
Impulsivity in BPD can stem from various sources. An intense fear of abandonment might drive someone to make hasty decisions in relationships, or the chronic feeling of emptiness might lead to impulsive attempts to “feel something.” Additionally, many with BPD experience heightened emotional sensitivity, making impulsive behaviors a means to cope.
The aftermath of these impulsive actions can be vast. Financial troubles, damaged relationships, health complications, and even legal issues might arise. Regret, guilt, and self-reproach often follow, leading to a vicious cycle where the individual seeks another impulsive act to cope with the aftermath of the previous one.
Gaining control over impulsive behaviors is a crucial aspect of managing BPD. Therapies like dialectical behavior therapy can equip individuals with skills to pause, reflect, and choose a different course of action. Over time, with consistent effort and support, it’s possible to break the cycle of impulsivity and build a life marked by considered choices. (8)
