Gambling addiction involves gambling to the point of extreme financial difficulty or other negative lifestyle effects. Some examples of gambling include lottery, sports betting, and horse betting. Compulsive gamblers have difficulties controlling their urges to gamble, even when their gambling is harming them and their loved ones. People with gambling addictions can lose large amounts of money, borrow from other people, and experience withdrawal symptoms when trying to avoid gambling.
Signs of Gambling Addiction
While some people are able to play slot machines, bingo, or spend some time at the horse races without issues, individuals with gambling addictions may find these diversions difficult to resist. Due to their addictions, they are unable to make sound decisions when it comes to gambling.
Stealing or committing other illegal acts to gamble is a major sign of gambling addiction. Lying to friends and family members about the extent of gambling and its related issues also indicates a significant problem. Other signs of gambling addiction include borrowing money to gamble, having unexplained financial problems, missing important events, school, or work to gamble, and gambling to escape from frustrations, worries, or emotional problems. Gambling addiction also causes feeling of restlessness or irritability when the urge to gamble surfaces.
Gambling Addiction Treatment
People who are not able to end gambling addictions on their own can benefit from gambling addiction treatment. If you or a loved one needs help for a gambling problem, working with a professional who specializes in addiction problems can be beneficial. Some people get help from online therapists or work with a therapist over the phone, while others attend therapy sessions in an office setting.
You can choose from several different treatment methods to reduce your likelihood of gambling again. For instance, you can use a treatment center and then join a support group after completing a treatment program. It is a very challenging endeavor to stop your behavior unless you are committed to quitting. The role of an addiction therapist is to help you face and overcome your gambling addiction, paving the way for you to reclaim your life.
