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Impulsivity-related disorders

What are impulsivity-related disorders in bipolar disorder?

Impulsivity-related disorders include intermittent explosive disorder characterised by uncontrolled fits of extreme anger and violence, pyromania characterised by irresistible urges to light fires, kleptomania characterised by irresistible urges to steal, and conduct disorder characterised by repetitive and persistent behaviours that violate societal rules and the basic rights of other people. Related disorders include; trichotillomania characterised by uncontrollable hair twisting and pulling, skin-picking disorder, pathological gambling, compulsive sexual behaviour and exhibitionism, compulsive buying, internet addiction, video or computer game addiction, food addiction, work addiction, tanning addiction and physical exercise addiction.

What is the evidence for impulsivity-related disorders?

Moderate to low quality evidence finds more harmful behavioural addictions in people with bipolar disorder than controls without the disorder.

Moderate quality evidence finds the prevalence of bipolar disorder in people with problem gambling is around 9%. Risk factors for problem gambling in people with bipolar disorder include suicidal ideation or attempt, history of rapid cycling, and younger age at illness onset.

October 2021

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Last updated at: 10:10 pm, 20th October 2021
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Tags:  Impulsivity

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