Kleptomania
Kleptomania is a strong and frequent desire to steal certain things that may not be necessary or valuable Kleptomania is a severe mental illness that causes emotional distress to the patient and their loved ones if untreated.
Kleptomania is an impulse control disorder, a person has difficulty controlling his emotions and behavior. If you have this type of disease, you have a hard time resisting the urge to engage in certain behaviors This type of behavior is somehow harmful to you or the other person
Kleptomania sufferers often live with the disease in secret, are ashamed to admit it, and do not seek treatment. There is no cure, but medication and psychotherapy can help patients control their impulses
The cause of kleptomania is unknown According to several theories, changes in the brain are responsible for this phenomenon More research is needed to better understand the reasons Probable factors are:
- Problems with the brain's natural information molecule – (neurotransmitter) serotonin Serotonin regulates mood and emotions Its low level causes a tendency to compulsive behavior
- Attitude development Stealing may trigger the release of dopamine (a neurotransmitter). Dopamine causes pleasurable sensations, and some people feel good at this time and repeat the act of stealing
- opioid system of the brain Cravings are regulated by the brain's opioid system An imbalance in this system makes desires stronger and harder to give up
Symptoms of Kleptomania include:
- Strong desire to steal certain things that may not be needed
- Tension, anxiety or excitement after stealing
- Pleasure, satisfaction while stealing
- Feelings of guilt, regret, shame or fear after stealing
They steal because they have a strong desire to do so that they cannot control - An episode of kleptomania occurs spontaneously, without planning, assistance or collaboration with another person
- Most kleptomaniacs steal from public institutions such as shops, supermarkets Some even steal from the houses of friends or acquaintances
- Often, the stolen item means nothing to the kleptomaniac, and this person was free to buy the item.
- Stolen items are often not even used and are simply collected A kleptomaniac may give items away, give them to family members, or even secretly return them to the place of theft.
- The urge to steal comes and goes with varying intensity throughout life
When to see a doctor If you are suffering from kleptomania, see your doctor Most kleptomaniacs do not seek treatment because of fear of arrest or shame Psychologists and psychiatrists will most likely not report your problem to the police
Some people go to the doctor because they have already been arrested or have been in prison for a kleptomania problem.
Treatment may help you better control kleptomania
If someone you know has kleptomania If you think a family member or friend has kleptomania, be careful when talking to them about the problem. Remember that kleptomania is a mental illness, not a bad trait Do not blame the person for this theft
These factors may help:
- You want to talk to this person because you are worried about their health and well-being
- You are afraid of the risks of compulsive stealing, such as being arrested, losing your job or ruining an important relationship
- You understand that in kleptomania, the urge to steal may be so strong that the person cannot resist using reasoning alone.
- Effective treatment will reduce the urge to steal and help you live a life free of shame and addiction.
- If you need help before talking to this person, talk to your doctor The doctor recommends a psychologist or psychiatrist who can help you before the conversation A kleptomaniac should not feel threatened or guilty
