What they are
Habit and impulse control disorders are conditions in which a person struggles to resist an impulse or to stop a repetitive behavior, even knowing the harm. Common ones include:
- Gambling disorder: persistent betting with financial losses and difficulty stopping
- Compulsive buying: repeated impulsive spending followed by guilt
- Trichotillomania: pulling out one’s own hair
- Excoriation disorder: repeatedly picking or injuring the skin
- Intermittent explosive disorder: disproportionate anger outbursts
Signs and symptoms
- Tension or urge before the behavior and brief relief afterwards
- Repeated, unsuccessful attempts to stop
- Hiding the behavior from family
- Financial, work, physical or relationship consequences
- Guilt, shame, anxiety or depression
How it is diagnosed
The psychiatrist assesses the pattern, frequency, triggers and consequences, and looks for associated conditions that change treatment, such as ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety and alcohol or drug use. Some medications can also increase impulsivity and need review.
Treatment
- Cognitive behavioral therapy and habit reversal techniques
- Medication, when indicated, according to the type of impulse and associated conditions
- Practical safeguards, such as financial limits and family support, agreed with the patient
When to see a psychiatrist
When the behavior continues despite attempts to stop, or brings debt, injuries, conflict, isolation or significant distress.
Follow-up at the practice
At the practice in Campinas, Dr. Petrus Raulino conducts the assessment discreetly and without judgment and follows progress in person or by video.
Staging: text awaiting medical review by Dr. Petrus before publishing.
This content is for information only and does not replace a medical consultation. Diagnosis and treatment depend on an individual assessment. In crisis or having thoughts of suicide? In Brazil call 188 (CVV, 24 hours, free) or go to the nearest emergency room. In an emergency, call 192 (SAMU).