From kleptomania to trichotillomania, these disorders can turn small urges into major struggles. But here’s the good news—you can take back control.
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Apart from “life is short”, what other phrases do you tell yourself before making bad decisions? You probably have many. That's pretty much what impulse control disorders (ICDs) are. Imagine being trapped in a tug-of-war between your brain’s “let’s do this!” voice and your inner “no, seriously, don’t” voice—except the “let’s do this!” one keeps winning.
Impulse control disorders happen when a person struggles to stop themselves from doing something they really shouldn't, even when the consequences are staring them in the face. Like that random impulse to buy a million shoes online when you can barely afford your transportation fee. Or maybe you can't resist pulling out that one annoying hair (that you know is going to come back).
However, It's not just about impulse. These behaviors have compulsive features too; meaning the desire to act doesn’t just pop up out of nowhere. It builds up, like a boiling kettle of stress that’s desperate to blow off some steam. It’s that "arousal" (not the fun kind) that starts the behavior, and the compulsive need to do it again and again to relieve the tension. It's a rollercoaster of madness. And no, the whole thing doesn't just go away with a long walk or a quick pep talk.
The Usual Suspects: Types of Impulse Control Disorders
Meet some of the notorious members of the ICD gang. You might recognize some behaviors, maybe even laugh a little nervously (because who doesn’t have that one questionable habit?)
1)Kleptomania
For starters, meet kleptomania. No, it's not a cool word for being a ninja thief. People with kleptomania just need to steal, even when they don't need the stuff. Seriously, you’re walking into a store with your wallet full of cash and just decide, "Hey, I should probably steal this 5 Birr candy bar." Sounds ridiculous, right? But that’s exactly how it feels—this uncontrollable urge to snatch things, even though you have no use for them. And guess what? It’s super awkward when you get caught.
2)Pathological Gambling (PG)
We all know someone who’s spent an entire paycheck at the “Betting houses”. But for people with PG, it’s not about fun or even the thrill of the gamble—it’s an obsession, a compulsion that takes over. You’ll often find these folks pouring their last savings into a machine or bet, and bam, they’re back again, repeating the cycle, completely disregarding how it’s wrecking their personal life and finances. Kinda like telling yourself “one more ጉርሻ” when your stomach keeps protesting, “You’re full, stop it!"
3)Trichotillomania (Hair-Pulling)
Next, we have trichotillomania, also known as "that urge to pluck your hair until you’re bald in spots." It’s an impulse that helps you deal with stress... temporarily. It’s like you are trying to focus at work while the tiny hairs on the back of your neck are driving you mad. You just have to pluck them out. And oh, the sweet, sweet relief. It’s like your own hair is your stress ball. But... that doesn’t solve the problem, does it?
4)Pyromania
Fires, explosions—sounds like a thriller movie, right? Well, for some, fire setting is an impulsive behavior with no external reward. It's like setting a match to a pile of dry grass because, well, it’s just what you do. Of course, this isn’t some childhood fascination with sparklers; pyromania involves dangerous fire-setting without a clear reason. And let’s just say, it’s not the kind of thing you want to brag about.
5)Intermittent Explosive Disorder (IED)
Ever been so mad that you just lose it and break something? Well, people with IED experience that, but on a whole different level. We're talking full-on tantrums over the smallest inconveniences—like someone cutting in line or, watching tik-tok without earphones in public spaces. If you can relate, maybe you should take a deep breath. It's not a joke when it goes beyond the occasional “blow up” and into aggressive outbursts.
How It All Adds Up (or Doesn't)
All these disorders have one thing in common: an inability to control an urge. It’s like your brain's operating on autopilot while the rest of you is desperately trying to take the wheel. Sure, in the short term, these behaviors might give some form of relief or even pleasure. But long-term? Well, it’s a recipe for disaster. We’re talking about serious consequences like damaged relationships, financial ruin, or just a whole lot of awkwardness.
You Can Get Help….
If this all sounds a little too familiar, take a breath. Impulse control disorders, while frustrating and often embarrassing, are treatable. And no, you don’t need to keep hiding in shame because it’s 2025, and mental health awareness is on the rise (though we’ve still got a long way to go). Therapy, medications, and a solid support system can work wonders. And guess what? You’re not the only one. People with OCD-related disorders, like obsessive-compulsive spectrum disorders (OCSD), share similar struggles with impulsive behaviors, and they’ve got help too.
So, don’t just sit there trying to resist the urge to take that extra shot of vodka or swipe on your phone one more time. Seek help, because, let’s face it, you deserve to stop battling with yourself. Your impulse control might be a bit off, but with the right support, you’ll be back in control, without shame or guilt.
