To control the impulse to steal, it is usually advisable to consult a psychologist, to try to identify the problem and start psychotherapy. However, psychiatrist consultation can also be advised by the psychologist, as there are medications that can also help control the urge to steal. Some of these remedies include antidepressants, anticonvulsants or anxiety medications.
Psychotherapy, also called cognitive-behavioral therapy, is very important to develop methods that help the person to control himself and prevent theft, such as phrases that recall the guilt felt after the theft and the danger that it is to steal. However, this treatment is time-consuming and support from the family is important to help the patient control his illness.
Which is
The urge to steal, also known as kleptomania or compulsive theft, is a psychiatric illness that leads to frequent theft of objects from stores or friends and family, due to an uncontrollable urge to own something that is not yours.
This disease has no cure, but the behavior of stealing can be controlled with treatment guided by a psychologist or psychiatrist.
Symptoms and diagnosis
Kleptomania usually appears in late adolescence and early adulthood, and its diagnosis is made by a psychologist or psychiatrist in the presence of 4 symptoms:
- Frequent inability to resist impulses to steal unnecessary objects. Increasing feeling of tension before the theft; Pleasure or relief at the time of the theft; Feeling of guilt, remorse, shame and depression after the theft.
Symptom number 1 differentiates people with kleptomania from common thieves, as they steal objects without thinking about their value. In most cases of this disease, the stolen objects are never used or even returned to the true owner.
Causes
Kleptomania does not have a definite cause, but it seems to be related to mood disorders and a family history of alcoholism. In addition, these patients also tend to decrease the production of the hormone serotonin, which is the pleasure hormone, and theft increases this hormone in the body, which can cause the addiction that is behind this disease.
What can happen
Kleptomania can lead to psychological complications, such as depression and excessive anxiety, and complications in personal life, as the desire to commit thefts hinders concentration and a healthy relationship in the workplace and with the family.
In addition to the emotional difficulties, it is common for these patients to be surprised at the time of the theft and to respond to the police for their attitude, which can lead to serious consequences, such as imprisonment.
To avoid the crises that lead to theft, see 7 Tips to Control Anxiety.
