Kleptomania

Kleptomania is an obsessive compulsion to steal. Kleptomania is an impulse-control disorder and people suffering from it usually aren’t able to quit without help. An amateur shoplifter generally steals for personal use or for financial gain, but a person suffering from kleptomania steals regardless of need. A person with kleptomania will feel strong urges to take things they don’t need. They will feel tense and irritable until they give into the compulsion to steal and will feel pleasure while stealing.

The positive feelings that take place while in the act of stealing will generally pass quickly and be replaced with intense feelings of regret, shame and guilt. Kleptomania is a serious mental health disorder that can disrupt your life if not treated. A mental health professional can help you get a handle on your stealing and work with you to make positive changes.