In today’s episode, Nicole, along with Dr. Gregory Serfer and Melanie Jones, dives into the true meaning of impulsivity in Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) and its impact on those affected and their supporters. They explore what impulsivity means for people with BPD (pwBPD), how to differentiate it from ADHD, and whether it can be destructive. Also, they examine theories behind impulsive behavior, discussing how it often manifests in those with BPD and the underlying drivers behind it. They discuss coping mechanisms, the impact on daily functionality, and how impulsivity often affects friends and family. Finally, they highlight how impulsivity connects to many defining traits of BPD, offering insights and support strategies throughout.

Disclaimer: The title of this podcast and its contents are not intended to in any way promote, encourage, or advocate suicide or any form of self-harm. If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide and needs support, please call 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

Here is the episode breakdown:

Guest:

• Dr. Gregory Serfer: contact@gregoryserfer.com

Book: “I Am Still Right Here”: https://www.amazon.com/I-Am-Still-Right-Here/dp/B0BNTZBZFT

• Melanie Jones

Email: emmjay993@yahoo.com

In this episode, you will hear:

• 0:00 Intro

(Beginning of Interview)

• 1:07 Beginning Pleasantries with Gregory, Handsome Dan, Melanie, and Nicole
• 3:48 Impulsivity From Mel & Nicole’s Perspective
• 6:30 The True Meaning of Impulsivity and Its Impact on People with BPD (pwBPD)
• 13:48 Theories Behind Impulsivity Behavior Occurs for pwBPD
• 16:19 Clarifying Question: How Do I Know If I Have BPD or ADHD?
• 21:00 Is Impulsivity Destructive? Coping Mechanisms and Masking Impulsivity
• 31:28 Does Different Coping Methods Lead to Low or High Functionality?
• 44:04 How Impulsive Behavior Impacts the Supporting Individuals Around pwBPD
• 48:46 Many Definitive Criteria of BPD Are Connected Through Impulsivity
• 53:09 Mel’s Final Words and Nicole’s Perspective on Impulsivity
• 57:17 Dr.Gregory’s Final Words: The Effect of Alcohol on Impulsivity

(End of Interview)

• 1:02:31 Nicole’s Closing Statement
• 1:02:52 BPD Daily Mantra
• 1:03:09 Outro
• 1:04:25 “Little Things” (Remix) by Jorja Smith ft MayDay: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xA9byN3fzks

Episode Resources:

• Website: https://www.showmegrace.org/

Connect with the Host:

Nicole Darby: presspause4grace@gmail.com

Credits:

Host and Podcast Producer: Nicole Darby

Sound Engineer: Stefan Mitroi

Research Team: Nicole Darby & Tamar Brignolle