What is
Impulse Control Disorders?

Impulse Control Disorders are a group of mental health issues that can impact individuals in different ways. Understanding and addressing them through therapy can lead to improved well-being and quality of life.

What Is It?

Impulse Control Disorder involves difficulty resisting urges that could harm oneself or others. It includes conditions like kleptomania, pyromania, and intermittent explosive disorder. Causes may involve genetics, brain chemistry, trauma, or environmental factors that impair emotional and behavioural regulation.

Common Experiences

People with this disorder may feel growing tension before an impulsive act, followed by relief or pleasure, and often guilt afterward. They might struggle with sudden outbursts, theft, or aggression, and usually recognise the behaviour is inappropriate but feel unable to stop. Sometimes, behaviours have legal consequences.

How It Can Affect You

Impulse Control Disorders can disrupt relationships, employment, and daily life, often leading to legal or financial trouble. Treatment usually includes cognitive-behavioural therapy, medication like SSRIs or mood stabilizers, and coping strategies to improve self-control and reduce harmful urges over time.