Dear Bunmi,
When I was young, my family struggled financially, and my aunt took me in to help with her family. She sent me to school and took good care of me, but I always found myself stealing from her and the children—clothes, jewelry, and makeup—to fit in with my friends.
I was so skilled at it that I rarely got caught.
Now that I’m married and have a decent job, I still find myself stealing. Sometimes, I take money from my husband and things that belong to my friends.
Afterward, I feel guilty as I look at the clutter of stolen items in my home, knowing I’ll never use them. The sight makes me sick with remorse. I want to stop before my husband realizes what’s happening, but I feel powerless to control it.
—Riskat, by e-mail.
DEAR RISKAT,
It’s good that you recognize you have a serious problem.
If this continues, it could escalate to a point where you might face legal consequences.
You need to seek help—immediately.
Do you think you can confide in your husband in hopes of getting professional assistance? If not, consider arranging counseling at the psychiatric department of any teaching hospital.
They help with more than just mental illness; they also address psychological issues.
You’ll likely be referred to a therapist for cognitive behavioral therapy.
Over time, you’ll learn to identify the triggers behind your stealing impulses. When they arise, you’ll be better equipped to manage them!
