What is Intermittent Explosive Disorder?
A person with Intermittent Explosive Disorder is prone to having behavioural outbursts that are out of proportion to the current circumstances. Intermittent explosive disorder is an often-overlooked mental health condition. This disorder is discovered by episodes of sudden outbursts and extreme anger. Intermittent explosive disorder commonly begins in childhood. The majority of people continue to encounter it later in their life.
Intermittent explosive disorder makes you violent and aggressive without any particular reason. People with this disorder may get involved in a series of physical fights and verbal outbursts. They might also abuse others in addition to throwing objects and breaking them. This behaviour can be distressing and affect your everyday life, including things like relationships and activities. As a result, it can sometimes lead to financial problems and legal loss.
How Is Intermittent Explosive Disorder Treated?
Seeing a therapist, psychologist or counsellor is very beneficial and could help regulate intense anger. Cognitive behavioural therapy is known to be very effective and can explore unhealthy patterns using coping skills. Relapse education and relaxation techniques can also be involved to help deal with aggressive impulses. Another effective method is 12 weeks of group or one to one therapy. These sessions can help you deal with anger, hostility and aggression. Medication can also be provided for those with Intermittent Explosive Disorder. These medications include:
- Antidepressants
- Mood stabilizers
- Antipsychotic
- Antianxiety drugs
Treatment can take up to three months before working effectively. It is important to remember that not everybody responds to medication which is why it is always good to explore different options. Lifestyle changes are also beneficial and can have a positive effect on the brain reducing aggressive behaviour. Some of these things include:
- Maintaining a balanced diet
- Good quality sleep
- Keeping your body physically active
- Avoiding alcohol and drugs
- Managing stress
- Making time for yourself and doing things you enjoy like listening to music
- Trying therapies like a massage therapist
The causes Of Intermittent Explosive Disorder
The exact cause of Intermittent explosive disorder is yet to be identified but there are factors that play a role. For example, growing up in an abusive, sexual or physical environment can contribute to the behaviour of this disorder. Repeated impulsive and aggressive behaviour can also correlate with low serotonin levels in the brain.
This can develop into Intermittent explosive disorder. Additionally, people who suffer from other mental health conditions have a higher chance of developing this disorder. These mental health conditions involve those with symptoms of impulsive or problematic behaviours such as ADHD and ODD.
How To Deal With Intermittent Explosive Symptoms
Intermittent explosive disorder can be terrifying, but when retaliating back can make matters worse destabilizing the person even more. De-escalating the situation requires patience and calmness. Try to detach from your personal feelings and recognize the person’s behaviour is out of their control. If you feel threatened during an episode, you may want to consider giving a firmer approach. You should also consider removing yourself to a safe area away from the situation. A close partner or a person with intermittent explosive disorder may be familiar with this condition in which they are able to pick up on the signs that an outburst is approaching.
For example, a person with this condition may experience tightness in their chest area and display shakiness. Acute intermittent explosive outbursts may include verbal and physical abuse. If you are living with somebody with this condition, it is always good to eliminate harmful objects that the person may use to harm themselves or others. Here are some de-escalation techniques:
- Give the person space but stay close enough to build an understanding
- Try problem-solving tactics. For example, you could ask trying asking ways you help fix the problem
- Try not to say anything that could come across as belittling
- Validate the person’s feelings
- Use your listening skills, this shows that you are positively engaged
- Tryreinforcement in a positive manner when the person is back in control
- Use calm body language and try not to add to the drama
Complications Of Intermittent Explosive Disorder
People with the explosive disorder have a higher risk of:
Impaired relationships- People with this disorder are often seen as angry and aggressive by others. They may have several verbal or physical fights. These actions can lead to serious consequences and problems with relationships.
Trouble with work, school, and home life- Dealing with Intermittent Explosive Disorder can lead to job loss, car accidents, trouble with the law, and financial problems.
Issues with mood- Mood disorders can develop such as anxiety and depression.
Health problems- Medical conditions are common and can affect blood pressure, stroke, ulcers, diabetes, and chronic pain.
Self-harm- Suicide attempts or injuries can occur during an episode
How To Prevent Intermittent Explosive Disorder
If you struggle with this disorder, prevention may be out of your control during an outburst unless you get the correct treatment. Some of these suggestions may help you prevent from things getting completely out of control:
Stay consistent with your treatment plan- Attend all of your therapy sessions and practice your coping skills. If your doctor has prescribed you medication, remember to take it so it can be effective.
Try relaxation techniques- Breathing methods and positive imagery can help you stay calm along with yoga.
Cognitive restructuring- Try to change the way you think. This can improve the way you view and react to situations.
Problem-solving- Structure a plan to try to diffuse the situation. Even if you can not fix the problem straight away, having a plan can focus your energy and keep you centered.
Remove yourself from the environment- changing your environment can be very beneficial. It can give you time to distress and think about your actions.
Avoid substances- Avoid things like drugs and alcohol as these can worsen one’s psychological state.
