Impulse Control Advice?

[maebear]

This is my first ADHD community group, so I'm a bit nervous! I'm 21, born 2003, and I've been diagnosed with ADHD ever since I was 5. I struggle the most with impulse control, and I haven't had the urge to ask for help or advice until now. I'm in college, my final semester, and since I'm on my own with no parents to steer me away from stores or food places, I spend a lot of money on things I don't need, like fast food and things like that. Once in a while is okay, but I've been doing it nearly every day. Is there any advice on impulse control in general? I've been struggling a lot with it. I wonder why people with ADHD or neurodivergent people tend to struggle with this far more than neurotypical people. Happy to be in this community!

[Mamamichl]

make it harder to use your money. Like keep your card at home or have an item already planned to eat. I just got a bunch of skillet and other quicker meals so it’s not as inconvenient to cook. Start showing what you have for dinner to someone each day so you can be held accountable.

I also saw some good ideas in my you tube favorites and their audiobooks.

Holderness family (book is adhd is awesome)

How to adhd (book by same name)

Adhd_love (books are small talk and dirty laundry)

One that stands out is activity chaining.

[ImJester]

I take Naltrexone for my impulse control and it has changed my life. It is approved for this specific treatment with ADHD patients. Ask your doctor for it.

[GreenGrass24]

Welcome to the community! I'm really glad you reached out — I know how hard it can be to ask for help, but you’re definitely not alone in this. I’ve struggled with impulse control too, especially when it comes to spending and food. ADHD can make those impulsive urges feel almost impossible to resist sometimes, and it's not because we're lazy or undisciplined — it's just how our brains are wired. When I feel the urge to spend impulsively, I try to pause — even just for a few minutes — and ask myself, “Do I really want this?” or “Will this still feel like a good choice in an hour?” That small delay can sometimes break the cycle. Working with an OT helped me build better routines and strategies for impulse control. They introduced me to practical tools that make sticking to goals easier — things like structured routines, visual prompts, and mindfulness exercises. You’re not alone in this — and you’re doing the right thing by reaching out. Proud of you for taking this step! 💙