Could Your Impulsive Decision-Making Be Related to Anxiety?

If you have been ordered by a judge to take a decision-making course, you may be wondering how you got to this point. What is it inside of you that causes you to make poor decisions? Your impulsive decision-making could actually stem from deeply rooted anxiety.

Overthinking Leads to Desperation

Anxiety disorders are often characterized by overthinking. You may think that this means you think longer and harder about each decision you make, but this can actually have the opposite effect. As your anxiety mounts, it can create desperation. When you are desperate, you may make the wrong decision in the heat of the moment just to try and get relief from the anxiety.

Controlling Impulsivity with Anxiety Treatment

If you constantly make impulsive decisions due to anxiety, you may be able to improve your decision-making skills by first treating your anxiety disorder. Sometimes this requires medication, but there are other ways to keep anxiety down:

• Exercise – Burning off energy can help you tone down anxiety which can lead to making better decisions. The endorphins released by exercise can help you feel happier overall as well.
• Stay Busy – Keep your schedule full of mentally distracting things, channeling your energy into areas other than anxiety. Pick up a new hobby like puzzles, crochet, reading, or hiking.

If you feel like anxiety is running your life and leading you to make impulsive decisions, you should consult a psychologist. They can help you create healthy coping mechanisms for your anxiety, and provide medication if necessary.