Intermittent Explosive Disorder (IED)

Intermittent explosive disorder is a form of mental health disorder that occurs mostly along with another mental health condition.

Intermittent explosive disorder

Intermittent explosive disorder is a mental health condition that causes recurrent episodes of extreme anger outbursts and violent behavior, and these episodes are usually too aggressive and intense for the situation that caused them.

Intermittent explosive disorder is a chronic condition that can come and go, and it causes major life issues.

Causes of intermittent explosive disorder

• Intermittent explosive disorder usually starts in childhood, and the reason behind it isn’t clear, but it’s thought that it results from biological, genetic, and environmental (like growing up in families where explosive behaviors are common) factors.
• The risk of intermittent explosive disorder increases when the patient has a history of physical abuse or a history of other mental health conditions.

Symptoms of intermittent explosive disorder

• Angry outbursts and impulsive attacks occur suddenly and usually last less than 30 minutes, and the person can’t control how they behave during the episode, although they know that their behaviors are inappropriate.
• The person before the episode may feel irritability, rage, racing thoughts, increased tension and energy, shaking, heart palpitations, and chest tightness.
• The outburst episode can cause long and angry speeches, shouting, heated arguments, temper tantrums, physical fights, slapping or pushing, damaging the things around them, and threatening or harming people and animals.
• Intermittent explosive disorder can lead to relationship problems, mood problems, issues at school or work, physical health issues, or self-harm.

Diagnosis of intermittent explosive disorder

• Physical exam.
• Mental health evaluation.

Treatment of intermittent explosive disorder

• Psychotherapy.
• Medications.