Addiction and Recovery From Gambling
Gambling is the act of wagering something of value on an event determined in part by chance. It can include games such as bingo, lottery tickets and scratch cards.
The most common form of gambling involves betting on a sporting event or playing a casino game. It usually involves a large amount of money and carries with it the risk that the gambler will lose all of his or her investment.
It’s an activity that can cause serious problems for many people. It can lead to debt, poor relationships and a reduced quality of life. Problem gambling can also cause people to feel depressed and even suicidal.
There are a number of treatments for problem gambling, including cognitive-behavioral therapy and drug or alcohol treatment. These can help you overcome your problem and prevent it from returning. They may also include lifestyle changes and medication if necessary.
Addiction and recovery from gambling can be difficult but it is possible with the right support. If you have a problem with gambling, or you are worried about someone else, contact StepChange today to speak to a free and confidential adviser.
A good place to start is to decide how much money you are willing to lose and stick to that. This will prevent you from overspending or chasing losses and give you the control you need to stop.
Remember, gambling is a fun way to spend time but it doesn’t have to be addictive. If you think that your addiction is getting in the way of your daily life, it’s important to seek help for it as soon as possible.
If you’re a parent, make sure to educate your children about the dangers of gambling and encourage them not to participate in it. They can become addicted and harm their mental and physical health, as well as their relationships with family and friends.
The Psychiatry Foundation recommends that those who have a problem with gambling should see a therapist for assessment and treatment. They will need to rule out underlying mood disorders and other psychological conditions that could be contributing to the problem.
A therapist will be able to recommend the most appropriate treatment for your needs. They can teach you how to deal with your emotions and behavioural patterns, and they will work with you to address the financial and relationship problems that are caused by gambling.
One of the most effective ways to overcome a gambling addiction is to attend a gambling rehabilitation program. These programs are designed to treat severe gambling disorder and offer round-the-clock support.
There are a variety of options for those who need to find a rehab center, including residential and inpatient programs. They may be able to help you overcome your addiction and avoid gambling in the future.
The APA’s new Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), published in May 2013, added pathological gambling to the addictions section of the manual. This is a significant change because it allows a more accurate assessment of the severity and impact of this disorder.