According to Dr Mayarani, homeopathic doctor and psychologist, the sudden fit of rage is basically associated with road rage, domestic violence and other temper tantrums. The sudden rage primarily stems from learnt behaviour from the environment, genetics and underlying mental illness. Some signs of the disorder are shouting, slapping, fisticuffs, damaging materials, threatening or hurting people or animals.
During impulsive outbursts neurotransmitter catecholamine is released in large amounts, resulting in a explosive release of energy. The body muscles get tense and heart rate increases. Breath rate escalates with blood rushing to face and brain. There may be an increased flow of blood to the limbs too.
The raging person's attention gets narrowed to the target. The sudden rush of neurotransmitters prepares one to a fight mode. However, the prefrontal cortex can still control the emotions. Except those who who are having an antisocial personality disorder, the anger subsides gradually and becomes normal.
The rage out of impulsivity leaves a trail of undesirable consequences, which is the most challenging aspect of the condition. Stress and depression are the most prominent among them. As a stable relationship is complicated for them, continuous quarrels in the family can eventually lead spouses, both the impulsive person and his or her partner, to depression. Unless remedial measures are taken urgently the situation can spin out irrevocably worse and dreadful situations.
Consequences if impulsivity is left untreated:
» The affected persons may not be able to maintain a stable relationship either within the family or outside
» There are chances of turning to alcoholism substance abuse
» Rash driving in a fit of rage can cause accidents
» Extended bouts of stress and depression may force affected persons to resort to suicide and self-injury
» May impair or reduce work efficiency
» Might suffer from residual guilt or repentance
» May get entangled in legal tussles
» Stress, anxiety, depression, hypertension and so on might lead to cardiac diseases
The treatment and remedies for personality disorders will depend on the severity of the condition. If it's a borderline personality disorder, there are medicines which can bring down the impulsivity. Meanwhile, there are no remedial measures for persons with antisocial personality disorders. The best option is to keep a distance with them, says Dr Ramesh, Psychiatrist, Kozhikode Medical College, says. Above all, identifying the presence of personality disorder itself is the first step and key to address the mental health issue, he adds.
