Kleptomania, characterized by an irresistible urge to steal, can be difficult to manage and treat. Fortunately, several treatment options can help individuals with Kleptomania regain control over their lives. This blog will discuss the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment of Kleptomania.
About Kleptomania
Kleptomania is a rare mental health disorder that occurs in only 0.6% of the general population . Individuals with Kleptomania are driven to steal items that they do not need and usually have no financial value. Unlike other mental health disorders, patients with Kleptomania often do not seek medical help because they are ashamed or embarrassed.
Symptoms of Kleptomania
Kleptomania is a type of impulse control disorder characterized by an irresistible urge to steal. People with Kleptomania often experience a "rush" or feeling of excitement while stealing, but they also feel guilt or shame afterward. Other common symptoms include preoccupation with stealing, feelings of tension before and during the act of theft, and relief after performing the act.
Causes of Kleptomania
The exact cause of Kleptomania is unknown. However, certain factors may increase a person's risk of developing this disorder. These risk factors include;
- Problems with serotonin: Serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate moods and emotions, may be linked to Kleptomania. Low levels of serotonin are common in people prone to impulsive behaviors, which could contribute to the urge to steal.
- Addictive mental disorders: Stealing may trigger the release of dopamine, another neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. Some people with Kleptomania may become addicted to the rush of dopamine, which could lead to compulsive stealing behavior.
- Other Mental Health Conditions: Patients with depression, anxiety, and eating disorders have also been found to be more likely to engage in Kleptomania than those without these conditions.
- Childhood trauma or neglect: A history of childhood trauma or abuse may also contribute to Kleptomania. Children who experienced neglect or abusive relationships may be more likely to engage in Kleptomania as adults.
- Substance Use Disorders: Substance use disorders, such as alcoholism or drug addiction, are often associated with Kleptomania. The presence of other addictive behaviors may increase the risk of Kleptomania.
Diagnosis of Kleptomania
American Psychiatric Association has stated that in order to diagnose Kleptomania, a clinician must identify these criteria as outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5);
- Failing to withstand urges to take things that are not necessary for personal use or for their monetary value on a regular basis.
- The moments leading up to the theft were becoming tenser and tenser.
- Pleasure, satisfaction, or relief at the time the theft was committed.
- The stealing is not done out of a sense of rage or retaliation, nor is it a reaction to a delusion or hallucination.
- None of the conduct disorder, a manic episode, or antisocial personality disorder offers a better explanation for the theft.
It's important to note that a qualified mental health professional should make the diagnosis after a comprehensive evaluation, which may include a medical and psychiatric history, physical examination, and psychological testing.
Treatment Options for Kleptomania
Kleptomania is a challenging disorder to treat, and there is no guaranteed cure for it. However, with proper treatment, many people with Kleptomania are able to control their urges to steal and significantly reduce the frequency and severity of their stealing behaviors. Treatment for Kleptomania may involve a combination of psychotherapy, medication, and support groups.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Kleptomania
Kleptomania is frequently treated using cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which is a popular method.. CBT helps individuals with Kleptomania to identify and change their thoughts and behaviors related to stealing and develop new coping strategies to manage their urges to steal. Mental health professionals specifically use aversion therapy as the first approach to treating Kleptomania and other impulse control disorders.
Medication for Kleptomania
In most cases, medications used to treat other mental health problems, such as impulse control disorders and stress, are used to treat kleptomania . Examples of medications include antidepressants, mood stabilizers, and antipsychotics. One of the most used medications for treating Kleptomania is selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). These medications work by changing serotonin levels, a neurotransmitter in the brain that helps regulate mood.
Covert Sensitization
This type of treatment involves having the patient think about a negative consequence that would result from stealing every time they feel the urge to steal. The goal of covert sensitization is to make the patient more aware of their behavior and to create an aversion to stealing.
Support Groups and Online Help for Kleptomania
Support groups can be an effective way of managing Kleptomania along with treatments. These groups provide a safe and confidential space for individuals to discuss their experiences. Although it is unlikely that kleptomania patients will all be able to join these groups, having access to someone who is going through similar mental health issues can help increase understanding and provide support.
For those who prefer confidentiality or cannot join group therapy, some online forums and therapy websites can support Kleptomania. These sites provide qualified specialists to answer questions and provide advice.
Conclusion
Kleptomania is a treatable mental health condition, but the journey to recovery can be difficult. Understanding the disorder and its symptoms is the first step in overcoming it. Many people can succeed by seeking professional help and following the treatment plan. Anyone with Kleptomania can lead a productive life with the right mindset, help from a mental health provider, and support.
FAQ
What triggers Kleptomania?
Kleptomania is thought to be caused by an imbalance of brain chemicals, such as serotonin, that regulate brain activity. Stressful life events, a family history of impulse control disorders, and having a mental health condition can also trigger Kleptomania.
What doctor treats Kleptomania?
Psychiatrists and psychologists are the two types of doctors who specialize in treating Kleptomania. A psychiatrist can prescribe medications to help treat the disorder, while a psychologist can provide behavioral therapies. Depending on your condition, you may need to see both a psychiatrist and psychologist to get the best treatment for Kleptomania.
References
- The Kleptomania Connection between Serotonin and Stealing
- Kleptomania and Potential Exacerbating Factors - PMC
- Kleptomania Disorder
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