Dealing with Kleptomania Disorder

The DSM IV-TR describes kleptomania as a disorder where a person is unable to resist impulses to steal objects. It is often thought to be connected to the obsessive-compulsive group of disorders. The criteria for diagnosis of Kleptomania includes the recurrence and subsequent failure to resist the impulse to steal, Increasing sense of tension leading up to a theft, followed by a sense of relief after completion of the act. If the act of theft is not an act of revenge or the result of a delusion, and the stealing is not more associated with another disorder, a diagnosis of Kleptomania may be made.

While the cause of Kleptomania is unknown, it may be genetic. According to the Mayo Clinic, Kleptomania may be linked to Serotonin problems in the brain. This disorder is known to co-exist in patients with obsessive-compulsive disorders, depression, and bulimia. Kleptomania has also been shown to occur occasionally after a head trauma.

Many cases of Kleptomania go undiagnosed and untreated, due to the private nature of the disorder. Many patients are jailed after repeated thefts. Left untreated, Kleptomania can also lead to depression, substance abuse, eating and anxiety disorders, suicidal thoughts, and social isolation. The patient may feel a sense of shame and hopelessness because he/she is unable to control the urge to steal, even from friends or family members.

Everything is not known about the psycho-pharmacological treatment of Kleptomania. Some studies have indicated that the use of some medications like antidepressants, mood stabilizers, tranquilizers, anti-seizure medications, and addiction medications may help to control the theft impulses. A variety of psychotherapy based treatments may also be indicated for treatment of the patient.

If someone close to you has been diagnosed with Kleptomania, understanding is key. The patient is not stealing out of any desire to cause harm to you. To these people, it is an uncontrollable urge that often takes over their lives. It is very important to help the patient with kleptomania stick to his/her treatment plan. In some cases you may need to help monitor medication intake. Encourage treatment for substance abuse, and practice the art of listening.

As far as personal concerns when dealing with a patient that has been diagnosed as with the kleptomania disorder, there are plenty of ways to avoid an uncomfortable situation that is the result of theft. Do not accompany the patient on trips to the mall, stores, etc. , instead, suggest different activities where the opportunity for theft is kept at a minimum. If the kleptomaniac is expected in your home, put away valuables and small, easily pocketed items. Most often, the urge to steal is concentrated on some item that is kept in plain view. By not leaving the patient alone in a room, you will remove the opportunity for theft.

It is very important to be as tactful as possible in this situation. It may be best to discuss your understanding of the disorder with the patient, and possibly accompany him or her to support groups for kleptomaniacs.