ConfessMail

Comment from sue
Time: September 17, 2007, 12:05 am

Get some help before you hurt yourself or others. It’s a dangerous compulsion to have.

Comment from anonymous
Time: September 17, 2007, 12:41 am

I get the feeling from your postcard that this is something that you are proud of, and it most definitely shouldn’t be (my apologies if my interpretation in incorrect). You are going to end up hurting someone and that not only has the potential to ruin your life, but somebody else’s life.

Comment from rive
Time: September 17, 2007, 5:22 pm

If you know that this is the case, it’s advisable to seek help. Some information from FairView.org

What is pyromania?

Pyromania is an impulse disorder. People who have this disorder cannot resist an impulse to set fires, even though they know it is harmful. The urge makes them anxious, tense, or aroused. Only setting fires gives relief or satisfaction.

How does it occur?

The exact cause of this disorder is not known. Experts think it may be caused by differences in the brain or nervous system. It might also be related to things such as child abuse or a family history of mental illness.

The symptoms of pyromania are:

setting fires on purpose more than once
being very tense or very excited before setting the fire
being attracted by fire and objects, people, or situations related to fire
feeling pleasure or relief when setting or watching fires
not caring about the loss of property, the injuries, or even the deaths that result from fires.
People with this disorder do not set fires for money, to express political beliefs, to hide signs of a crime, or to show anger. A true pyromaniac just likes fire.

How is it diagnosed?

Your health care provider or a mental health will ask about your symptoms and any drug or alcohol use. You may have lab tests to rule out medical problems such as chemical imbalances.

How is it treated?

Both therapy and medicines may be used to treat this disorder.

When should I seek help?

Pyromania is very dangerous to the person with the disorder as well as to others. If you suspect that someone you care about may have pyromania, ask your health care provider for a referral to a mental health professional as soon as possible.

I assume you sent this in as a notice of wanting help. I hope this information helps.

Comment from La Chatte
Time: September 20, 2007, 11:25 pm

i used to eat the top part of matches when i was a kid… among other strange things like dirt and glue. eww