Getting Help For a Gambling Addiction
Gambling is the risking of something of value (often money) on an event with a uncertain outcome, such as a game of chance or a lottery draw. It can be done in many forms, including casinos, sports betting, lotteries, and online gambling. People who gamble do so in the hope of winning something of value, such as money or property. Gambling is considered a problem when it negatively affects someone’s health, wellbeing, relationships and performance at work or school. It can also lead to debt and even homelessness.
People with a problem with gambling often hide their behaviour, denying their addiction to friends and family members. Some may lie about how much time and money they spend gambling or try to stop spending so much money, by withdrawing from their bank account or even borrowing money to fund their habit.
Like any other addiction, the roots of a gambling problem can be complex. But there are many ways to get help. There are organisations that provide support, assistance and counselling for people who are affected by problem gambling. These services can help people to control their gambling, overcome it completely or avoid it altogether. They can also provide support to family and friends who are affected by a person’s addiction.
There are no medications to treat gambling disorder, but there are a number of psychotherapy approaches that can help. These are treatments that are carried out by trained, licensed mental health professionals, such as psychologists and clinical social workers. Psychotherapy can help a person understand and change unhealthy emotions, thoughts and behaviors that contribute to their gambling disorder.
Some of the factors that can lead to a gambling addiction include an early big win, boredom susceptibility, impulsivity and a poor understanding of random events. Other contributing factors can be personality traits, coexisting mental health conditions and stressful life experiences.
The key to overcoming gambling addiction is replacing it with healthy activities and reducing stress. There are many healthier ways to relieve boredom and stress, such as exercising, spending time with friends who do not gamble, taking up a new hobby, or eating more nutritious food. There are also support groups for people with problem gambling, such as Gamblers Anonymous, which is based on the 12-step model of Alcoholics Anonymous.
Getting help for a gambling addiction is possible, but it is important to remember that recovery takes time. It is a process that requires commitment, effort and the help of others. In some cases, treatment may involve inpatient or residential programs. These are usually designed for people with severe gambling problems who cannot control their behavior without round-the-clock support. Getting help for a gambling addiction can make all the difference in regaining control of your finances, relationships and life. You can also find helpful self-help resources at www.gamblingaddictionhelpline.org.