Impulsivity? What impulsivity?

"Personality traits associated with impulsivity normally decrease during emerging and young adulthood, and these decreases are associated with reduced substance use."

It's interesting that impulsivity decreases in college-aged kids. You would think it would increase, but I'm sure that the upper ages of this group skew it downward. People in their early 20's are often starting careers, and learning how to be responsible. This leads to less impulsivity in their drinking and drug use.

Except us alcoholics and mental illness folk!

"Impulsivity is a problem with anyone who is an alcoholic, but alcoholics with antisocial and borderline personality disorders may be particularly troubled by inhibitory-control issues."

Like you would guess, those with mental illness are more likely to be substance abusers, and have impulsivity issues. I know mania makes you uninhibited by rational thought, so it would make sense to be impulsive.

So I guess we just have to watch ourselves closely. If you have a problem, 12 step groups are really helpful. But keep an eye on your moods. Too up, and you may develop that problem with alcohol and drugs.