DEPRESSION-YOU ARE NOT ALONE

 

 

Mental Health Friday 2023-04-14

On Mental Health Friday, we post, in alphabetical order, one per week, information on mental health disorders. Mental Health Friday is for informational purposes only, and is in no way meant to diagnose, treat or cure any disease. Please do not self diagnose and seek professional help for what ails you.

Kleptomania

By D.Y.A.N.A Editorial Team

Kleptomania is a mental disorder characterized by an uncontrollable urge to steal items that are typically not needed for personal use or for their monetary value. The condition is a type of impulse control disorder, and individuals with kleptomania may experience a sense of tension or anxiety before the theft and a feeling of relief or gratification afterward. Here are some aspects of kleptomania:

Symptoms: Kleptomania is typically characterized by the following symptoms:

1. Recurrent, irresistible urges to steal items that are not necessary or of little value.
2. Increasing tension and anxiety before the theft.
3. Feeling of pleasure, relief, or gratification after the theft.
4. Difficulty resisting the urge to steal, despite the potential consequences.
5. Stealing objects that are not needed for personal use or that are easily affordable.
6. Feeling guilty or ashamed after the theft, but still repeating the behavior.

Causes: The exact cause of kleptomania is unknown, but several factors may contribute to the development of this disorder. These include:

1. Neurochemical imbalances in the brain that affect impulse control and decision-making.
2. Genetic factors that may make some individuals more prone to impulsive behavior and addiction.
3. Childhood trauma or abuse, which may increase the risk of developing mental disorders and addictive behaviors.
4. Other mental disorders, such as depression, anxiety, or obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Diagnosis: Diagnosing kleptomania can be challenging, as the condition is often hidden and difficult to detect. However, mental health professionals may use the following criteria to diagnose kleptomania:

1. Recurrent episodes of stealing.
2. Increasing tension or arousal before the theft.
3. Pleasure, relief, or gratification after the theft.
4. Theft is not motivated by anger, vengeance, or delusions.
5. The theft is not attributable to conduct disorder, manic episodes, or antisocial personality disorder.

Treatment: Treatment for kleptomania typically involves a combination of psychotherapy, medication, and support groups. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is often used to help individuals learn new coping skills and develop a better understanding of their thoughts and behaviors. Medications such as antidepressants, mood stabilizers, and anti-anxiety drugs may also be prescribed to help manage symptoms of kleptomania. Additionally, support groups such as Kleptomaniacs Anonymous may be helpful for individuals with this disorder, as they provide a safe and supportive environment for discussing issues related to kleptomania.

In conclusion, kleptomania is a mental disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of stealing items that are not needed for personal use or of little value. The disorder is typically caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurochemical factors, and it can be difficult to diagnose and treat. However, with the right combination of therapy, medication, and support, individuals with kleptomania can learn to manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives.