Impulse Control Disorders: Gambling, Aggression, etc.

What these disorders have in common is a tension building to irresistible levels before engaging in the behavior, and a feeling of relief or pleasure afterward. There is sometimes guilt or remorse later, but probably not usually. The treatment of all of these disorders is either difficult or not well evaluated. Other disorders also involve problems with impulse control; Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and Alcoholism are good examples. 

If you or someone you love has an impulse control disorder, you need to consult a mental health professional (clinician, therapist). A mental health professional  will conduct a thorough evaluation  to first understand what is happening and then will discuss treatment options, including medications.

There are many ways family members or loved ones can help individuals to deal with the disorder better. 

An outline of these Impulse Control Disorders is below; you can read about each disorder by clicking on its name. 

Intermittent Explosive Disorder (excessive anger)
Kleptomania (impulsive stealing)
Pyromania (compulsive fire-setting)
Pathological Gambling
Trichotillomania (compulsive pulling out of hair)
Impulse Control Disorder Not Otherwise Specified

Read a book on the subject:

Sex, Drugs, Gambling, & Chocolate : A Workbook for Overcoming Addictions by A. Thomas Horvath, Reid K. Hester, G. Alan Marlatt