Medication
The most common medications used to treat intermittent explosive disorder are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as Prozac, Paxil, Lexapro and Zoloft. SSRIs are very effective because they prevent the brain from reabsorbing serotonin, which is a neurotransmitter.
Therapy
Intermittent explosive disorder is a chronic disorder that can continue for years, although the severity of outbursts may decrease with age. Treatment involves medications and psychotherapy to help you control your aggressive impulses. Explosive eruptions occur suddenly, with little or no warning, and usually last less than 30 minutes.
What medications are used for intermittent explosive disorder?
They include:
- A genetic component (occurs in families)
- Being exposed to verbal and physical abuse in childhood
- Brain chemistry (varying levels of serotonin) can contribute to the disorder
- Having experienced one or more traumatic events in childhood
Does intermittent explosive disorder go away?
What to know about intermittent explosive disorder
- Symptoms
- Causes and risk factors. Doctors remain unsure about the exact causes of IED but speculate that numerous factors play a role.
- Diagnosis. Doctors often begin the diagnostic process for IED by ruling out other potential causes of the individual’s behavior.
- Treatment options. ...
- Other conditions. ...
- Summary. ...
What are the causes of intermittent explosive disorder?
What to know about Intermittent Explosive Disorder?
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What is the best treatment for intermittent explosive disorder?
Psychotherapy (talk therapy) is usually the main treatment for intermittent explosive disorder, especially cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT is a structured, goal-oriented type of therapy. A therapist or psychologist helps you take a close look at your thoughts and emotions.
Is there a treatment for intermittent explosive disorder?
There's no single treatment that's best for everyone with intermittent explosive disorder. Treatment generally includes talk therapy (psychotherapy) and medication.
Can IED disorder be cured?
While there is no cure for IED, you can gain control over the symptoms with proper rehab. There are inpatient treatment programs designed specifically to meet the needs of people suffering from intermittent explosive disorder.
How do I stop outbursts?
Start by considering these 10 anger management tips.Think before you speak. ... Once you're calm, express your concerns. ... Get some exercise. ... Take a timeout. ... Identify possible solutions. ... Stick with 'I' statements. ... Don't hold a grudge. ... Use humor to release tension.More items...
How do you fix an explosive anger?
Do something to distract yourself mentally or physically – anything that completely changes your situation, thoughts or patterns can help stop your anger escalating. For example, you could try: putting on upbeat music and dancing. doing something with your hands, like fixing something or making something.
What triggers IED?
Exposure to violence and aggression during childhood, going through traumatic experiences, or being the victim of abuse and/or neglect are examples of some environmental factors that could bring about intermittent explosive disorder symptoms.
What is the best medication for anger?
Prescription and Over-the-Counter Medications Antidepressants such as Prozac, Celexa and Zoloft are commonly prescribed for anger issues. These drugs do not specifically target anger within the body, but they do have a calming effect that can support control of rage and negative emotion.
Is intermittent explosive disorder a mental illness?
Intermittent explosive disorder (IED) is an often overlooked mental disorder identified by episodes of anger, sudden outbursts in which the person loses control entirely. This mental disorder usually begins in childhood or adolescence. Most people continue to experience it later in their life, though.
What triggers IED?
Exposure to violence and aggression during childhood, going through traumatic experiences, or being the victim of abuse and/or neglect are examples of some environmental factors that could bring about intermittent explosive disorder symptoms.
What medication is given for anger issues?
Antidepressants such as Prozac, Celexa and Zoloft are commonly prescribed for anger issues. These drugs do not specifically target anger within the body, but they do have a calming effect that can support control of rage and negative emotion.
Is IED a personality disorder?
Intermittent explosive disorder (IED) is an impulse-control disorder characterized by sudden episodes of unwarranted anger. The disorder is typified by hostility, impulsivity, and recurrent aggressive outbursts. People with IED essentially “explode” into a rage despite a lack of apparent provocation or reason.
How does intermittent explosive disorder affect people?
Intermittent explosive disorder can have a very negative impact on an individual’s health and life. It can lead to trouble in personal relationships and marriages. It can negatively impair a person’s relationships and judgment at work and school.
How long does intermittent explosive disorder last?
However, according to studies, it is thought that intermittent explosive disorder is a long-term condition, lasting from 12 years to 20 years or even a lifetime.
What causes intermittent explosive disorder?
The cause of intermittent explosive disorder is unknown, but some contributing factors have been identified. They include: 1 A genetic component (occurs in families) 2 Being exposed to verbal and physical abuse in childhood 3 Brain chemistry (varying levels of serotonin) can contribute to the disorder 4 Having experienced one or more traumatic events in childhood 5 A history of mental health disorders, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), antisocial personality disorder, borderline personality disorder 6 Nearly 82 percent of those with intermittent explosive disorder have also had depression, anxiety or substance abuse disorder
When does explosive disorder start?
Intermittent explosive disorder usually begins in the early teens, but can be seen in children as young as six. It is most common in people under the age of 40.
How long does an explosive outburst last?
The outbursts typically last less than 30 minutes. After an outburst, an individual may feel a sense of relief – followed by regret and embarrassment.
What is the best treatment for IED?
Seeing a counsellor, psychologist, or therapist alone or in a group setting may help a person manage symptoms of IED. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that involves identifying harmful patterns and using coping skills, relaxation techniques, and relapse education to deal with aggressive impulses.
What is an IED?
Intermittent explosive disorder (IED) is a condition that involves sudden outbursts of rage, aggression, or violence. These reactions tend to be irrational or out of proportion to the situation. While most people lose their temper once in a while, IED involves frequent, recurring outbursts. Individuals with IED might throw tantrums, destroy ...
What does it feel like to have an IED?
Feelings of irritation, rage, and loss of control are commonly reported before or during the episode. People with IED might experience racing thoughts or a sense of emotional detachment. Immediately after, they might feel tired or relieved. People with IED often report feelings of remorse or guilt following an episode.
What is the age range for impulsive behavior?
are under the age of 40. grew up in a verbally or physically abusive household. experienced multiple traumatic events as a child. have another mental illness that causes impulsive or problematic behavior, such as: attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) antisocial personality disorder.
What causes an IED?
Little is known about what causes IED. The cause is likely a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Genetic factors include genes passed from parent to child. Environmental factors include behaviors that a person is exposed to as a child. Brain chemistry may also play a role.
Is it rare to have an IED?
However, it was first called IED in the third edition. Prior to the third edition, it was believed to be rare. With updated diagnostic criteria and advances in IED research, it’s now believed to be much more common. In 2005, a study. Trusted Source.
Is there a negative impact on IED?
Still, there are a number of interventions that aren’t likely to have a negative impact. Some of these include:
What is the treatment for intermittent explosive disorder?
Psychotherapeutic. Therapy and counseling may include both the patient and his or her family. One of the mainstays of treatment is cognitive behavior therapy (C BT).
What are the symptoms of an IED?
IED is a behavioral disorder characterized by repeated episodes of explosive rage that is disproportionate to the triggering situation, according to the Child Mind Institute. These episodes are normally intense and brief, lasting less than 30 minutes each. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms of IED might include: 1 temper tantrums 2 tirades 3 heated arguments 4 shouting 5 slapping, shoving or pushing 6 physical fights 7 property damage 8 threats or assaults to people or animals
How long does an IED last?
These episodes are normally intense and brief, lasting less than 30 minutes each. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms of IED might include:
What are the risk factors for IED?
The exact cause of IED is not understood, however, the Child Mild Institute says the risk factors include: A history of other mental health disorders, such as borderline personality disorder or antisocial personality disorder.
What does it mean when someone has an IED?
Instead, the person is unable to resist angry impulses. People with IED may describe feeling out of control.
What are the causes of explosive behavior?
When diagnosing IED, medical professionals should rule out other potential causes of explosive behavior, such as brain trauma, substance abuse, and other psychiatric illnesses. People with IED are also at risk of developing other mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and substance abuse.
How many people have an IED?
Approximately 5 to 7 percent of Americans will experience IED at some time in their life, according to Harvard Health. It can severely interfere with daily life and cause problems in family and social relationships, as well as academic performance.
How does online therapy help with IED?
The participants reported significantly decreased incidences of aggression, in addition to an increase in positive emotions and self-esteem following treatment. This finding corresponds with the conclusions of a similar study in which anger was successfully decreased after an online cognitive therapy program. Cognitive-behavioral therapy works by helping individuals reframe the negative thought patterns that can often lead to unwanted feelings and behaviors, such as severe, problematic anger, so that triggering situations and interactions are more manageable.
What is the disorder that causes explosive outbursts of anger?
When these interruptions to life occur because of anger, it is time to reach out for help. Intermittent explosive disorder causes explosive outbursts of anger that are frequently accompanied by violence and disproportionate to the issue or situation at hand. Punching, kicking, screaming, or throwing things may occur.
What is the DSM-5?
Intermittent Explosive Disorder In The DSM-5. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders has included intermittent explosive disorder in its Fifth Edition. According to the DSM-5, there are several intermittent explosive disorder symptoms. Some, but not all, include:
How to deal with anger and rage?
In doing this, the first step is to recognize that the present state of anger and rage is not healthy and must be changed. Then, other treatments, such as anger management or cognitive-behavioral therapy, can be utilized. Therapists can help to establish why the anger is present and how to dissipate it.
Is intermittent explosive disorder a DSM?
While the cause of intermittent explosive disorder is not always concretely identifiable, it is essential to recognize the signs and symptoms of this disorder, and take proper measures to receive treatment from a professional. Intermittent Explosive Disorder In The DSM-5.
Can IED be dangerous?
An individual that is diagnosed with intermittent explosive disorder (IED) should seek the help of a professional to treat their condition. If left untreated, it can lead to some very dangerous situations . As with any mental health diagnosis, it is important to learn about your condition and what techniques help.
Can you stay in a mental health facility for intermittent explosive disorder?
In serious cases of intermittent explosive disorder, an inpatient stay at a mental health facility may be appropriate. There, the patient can be monitored and given appropriate medication and treatment, while keeping the patient and others safe.
Medication
Although no specific medications exist for IED, there are still many effective options, such as:
Therapy
Doctors may recommend cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for individuals with IED. CBT allows people to understand and recognize the situations that cause their severe outbursts of anger.
Bipolar disorder
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that leads to unusual changes in mood, activity levels, energy, concentration, and the ability to complete regular, daily tasks.
Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD)
Doctors may diagnose ODD in children who have tantrums, are unusually angry, do not follow the rules, or harm others on purpose. Children with ODD exhibit this extreme behavior for at least 6 months.
What is the best treatment for IED?
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) appears to be the most effective type of therapy for treating individuals with IED. This very structured type of therapy is a collaborative effort between the therapist and the patient that is designed to be short-term and focuses specifically on the disorder itself by challenging the patient’s belief system. Once that belief system is tested, behavior becomes easier to change because the patient is no longer holding on to their previously rigid beliefs.
What is the best medication for IED?
Medications Used in Treating IED. The most common medications used to treat intermittent explosive disorder are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as Prozac, Paxil, Lexapro and Zoloft. SSRIs are very effective because they prevent the brain from reabsorbing serotonin, which is a neurotransmitter.
What is an IED?
What is Intermittent Explosive Disorder? Classified as an impulse control disorder in the Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition ( DSM-IV ), intermittent explosive disorder (IED) occurs when an individual reacts to a minor stressful situation in an overly aggressive manner, such as through a physical attack, ...
What is the disorder that makes you lose control?
Similar to obsessive compulsive spectrum disorders in which individuals feel compelled to act on their impulses regardless of consequences, individuals with this disorder report feeling unable to control their aggressive impulses and “lose control” in response to any type of frustration or stress. Intermittent explosive disorder appears ...
What happens if you leave an IED untreated?
If left untreated, bouts of IED can lead to harm to others, arrests for assault or destruction of property, suicidal thoughts or acts, loss of jobs, loss of relationships and/or divorce, car accidents, school suspensions, and possibly imprisonment.
When is it best to diagnose an IED?
Also, diagnosing and treating IED may be more successful if the disorder is caught early, which is very possible since it tends to occur during the teen and early adulthood years.
Can you cure intermittent explosive disorder?
Curing Intermittent Explosive Disorder: Available Treatment Options. Unfortunately, curing intermittent explosive disorder is not possible, but there are good treatment options that can help control the disorder, reduce the amount of attacks, and improve quality of life. The first step in treating IED is to be examined by a physician ...
What Is Intermittent Explosive Disorder (IED)?
Intermittent explosive disorder (IED) is a mental health condition included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). It’s considered one of the five impulse control disorders, a family which also includes oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), conduct disorder, kleptomania, and pyromania.
What Causes IED?
IED is a distinct, taxonic behavioral disorder as opposed to a dimensional disorder. This means that someone with IED isn’t just on the far end of the aggressive continuum. It is a discrete condition.
What IED Is Not
IED is frequently misdiagnosed, leading to inadequate treatment, so it’s helpful to understand what IED is not. To diagnose IED, mental health professionals need to rule out other possible causes of the behavior. For example:
How to Deal with IED Explosions
IED can be frightening. But when witnessing an active IED episode, showing your anxiety or fighting back can sometimes destabilize the person more. Effective de-escalation requires patience and calm. As much as you can, try to disengage from your personal feelings during the episode.
Effective Treatment for IED
Mental health professionals treat IED with prescription medication, particularly SSRIs like fluoxetine, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). A CBT psychotherapy package that includes coping skills training, relaxation training, and cognitive restructuring has been shown to reduce anger, automatic thoughts, and impulsive aggression.