Impulse Control Techniques

An impulse is a reaction that motivates you to behave in a certain manner. At times, intense emotions trigger impulses that may result in negative behavior. Impulses can become a problem when you lack self-control. Impulse control is a mechanism that makes you stop and consider the behavior and its consequences. Impulse control techniques are behavioral exercises that can help you learn how to inhibit destructive tendencies.

Professional Treatment

• Professional help is a valuable tool in curbing your impulse control problems. In extreme conditions such as pyromania, intensive therapy is often the only way to make improvements in the behavior. A mental health professional can offer a variety of options, such as behavioral therapy or cognitive therapy. Regular sessions with a psychiatrist or therapist can help alleviate some of the stresses that may trigger the behavior and provide a consistent source of support and motivation to improve your behavior.

Medication

• In many situations involving impulse control difficulties, certain medications can help alleviate some of your symptoms or triggers. Some impulse control disorders may be related to a serotonin imbalance in your body; medications may alleviate the impulse problems and help you feel more in control of yourself. Medication should be used in conjunction with therapy for best results.

Self-Help

• Seeking help is the most important way to help yourself practice impulse control techniques. This can be as simple as taking the first step to discuss the problem with someone you trust. Getting professional help to analyze the problem is the next step. Replacing the negative behaviors with healthy behaviors, identifying the triggers that cause impulse control problems and eliminating things in the environment that are related to the situation are also excellent methods to improve the situation.