Overview
Intermittent explosive disorder is a mental health condition characterized by repeated, sudden episodes of impulsive, aggressive, and violent behavior or angry verbal outbursts. These episodes are grossly disproportionate to the situation and cause significant distress, negatively impacting relationships, work, and school. Intermittent explosive disorder can lead to legal and financial consequences, and it can co-occur with mood disorders, substance use, and physical health problems. Treatment involves medications and psychotherapy to help control aggressive impulses, and seeking professional help is recommended for those who recognize their own behavior in this description. The exact cause of the disorder is unknown, but it's likely caused by a combination of environmental and biological factors, including exposure to violence at an early age and physical health issues.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
The symptoms of intermittent explosive disorder include repeated, sudden episodes of impulsive, aggressive, violent behavior or angry verbal outbursts in which the individual reacts grossly out of proportion to the situation. These episodes can manifest as road rage, domestic abuse, throwing or breaking objects, or other temper tantrums. The outbursts cause significant distress and negatively impact the individual's relationships, work, and school, and can lead to legal and financial consequences.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for developing intermittent explosive disorder include a history of physical abuse, a history of other mental health disorders such as antisocial personality disorder or borderline personality disorder, and a family history of the disorder. Other factors that may contribute to the development of intermittent explosive disorder include environmental factors such as exposure to violence at an early age and certain medical conditions. There is also evidence to suggest that there may be genetic components involved in the development of the disorder.
Development
Intermittent explosive disorder can develop due to a combination of environmental and biological factors. Environmental factors include growing up in families where explosive behavior and verbal or physical abuse are common. Exposure to violence at an early age increases the likelihood of exhibiting similar behavior patterns later in life. Genetics may also play a role in the development of intermittent explosive disorder, with the disorder being passed down from parents to children. Differences in brain structure, function, and chemistry may contribute to the disorder as well.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
You should see a doctor if you suspect you or someone you know may have intermittent explosive disorder. Some signs that warrant a doctor's visit include recognizing your own behavior in the description of intermittent explosive disorder, experiencing repeated, sudden episodes of aggressive behavior, angry verbal outbursts, or other temper tantrums, and if these episodes are causing significant distress, negatively impacting relationships, work, and school, and resulting in legal and financial consequences. A doctor can help determine the appropriate treatment options and refer you to a mental health professional if necessary.
Diagnosis
To diagnose intermittent explosive disorder, your doctor will typically perform a physical exam, a psychological evaluation, and use the criteria in the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders). The physical exam helps rule out any underlying physical conditions or substance use contributing to the symptoms. The psychological evaluation involves discussing your symptoms, thoughts, feelings, and behavior patterns with a mental health professional. Following these steps, a diagnosis of intermittent explosive disorder can be made if the criteria outlined in the DSM-5 are met.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Complications of intermittent explosive disorder may include:
- Impaired interpersonal relationships: People with the disorder are often perceived as always being angry, leading to frequent verbal fights or physical abuse, causing relationship problems, divorce, and family stress.
- Trouble at work, home, or school: Intermittent explosive disorder can result in job loss, school suspension, and difficulties in other areas of life.
- Problems with mood: Mood disorders such as depression and anxiety frequently occur with intermittent explosive disorder.
- Problems with alcohol and other substance use: Substance use issues often accompany intermittent explosive disorder.
- Physical health problems: Medical conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, ulcers, and chronic pain are more common among individuals with intermittent explosive disorder.
- Self-harm: Intentional injuries or suicide attempts may occur. It's important to seek professional treatment for intermittent explosive disorder to manage these potential complications.
Home Remedies
It is important to note that intermittent explosive disorder is a mental health condition that requires professional treatment, such as psychotherapy and medication. Self-harm and suicide are serious issues, and it is crucial to seek professional help if you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms. Please consult with a mental health professional or your doctor for appropriate guidance and recommendations.
Treatment
Treatments for intermittent explosive disorder include medications and psychotherapy. Medications may help control aggressive impulses and reduce the severity of outbursts, while psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, can help individuals understand and manage their anger and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Lifestyle modifications like practicing relaxation techniques and attending therapy sessions can also aid in preventing incidents from getting out of control. It's important to consult a mental health professional or doctor for proper evaluation and treatment.