Before doing something impulsively, many of us are able to control our urge to want to do it. However, those who suffer froma impulse control disorder (or ICD) cannot – putting them at higher risk for harming themselves or others. Some formal ICDs include: pathological gambling (PG), kleptomania, trichotillomania (TTM), compulsive skin picking, and more.
Kleptomania
Kleptomania is defined as “a mental illness in which you have a strong desire to steal things.” Typically, the onset of kleptomania is late adolescence to early adulthood – however, has been reported as young as a 4 year old and as old as a 77 year old.
Trichotillomania
Trichotillomania is defined as a “disorder that involves recurrent, irresistible urges to pull out hair from your scalp, eyebrows or other areas of your body, despite trying to stop.” Approximately 1-3% of people suffer from trichotillomania, and from those, approximately 65% of them seek treatment.
Pathological Skin Picking (Excoriation)
Excoriation is defined as “the repetitive picking of the skin to an extent where damage is caused.” Those who suffer from this disorder may even pick at other skin variations like freckles and moles. Some may even pick at finger and toe nails.
Alex Newton is a nursing student and mental health advocate. She grew up in a small town and plans on moving to London, England one day and open up her own health practice. She has a cat named Maya who she adopted whilst going through some difficulties. She’s a daughter, sister, and warrior who enjoys a nice cuppa tea.
Defying Shadows 