Impulse Control Disorder

All of us have occasional urges to do things we know we shouldn't do. But most often we don't actually do those things because they are wrong, or we know they will harm ourselves or others.

A person who places no such restrictions on his or her own actions suffers from "impulse control disorder." This is a form of psychiatric disorder characterized by impulsivity. Impulsivity is when someone fails to resist an urge or temptation that may cause harm.

Impulsivity comes in many forms. It is present in many psychiatric disorders including substance abuse, attention deficit hyperactivity, pathological gambling and schizophrenia.

There are five stages of impulse control disorder. These are an impulse, growing tension, pleasure from acting, relief from the urge, and sometimes (but not always), guilt.

If you think you may be affected by an impulse control disorder, discuss your symptoms with your EAP counselor. Together you can find ways to overcome the urges and free yourself from excessive impulsivity.

If you are experiencing any of the following signs and symptoms, Please contact your EAP counselor.

• Gambling
• Stealing
• Hair pulling
• Explosive anger outbursts
• Fire starting
• Skin picking
• Excessive spending habits
• Compulsive sexual behavior

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Resources:http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3089999/