Dealing With Gambling Disorders
People gamble for many reasons – to win money, socialise or escape from worries or stress. But gambling can become addictive and lead to serious problems if it isn’t stopped. If you or a loved one are concerned that your gambling is out of control, there are several ways to seek help. These include treatment, support groups and self-help tips.
Problem gambling can have serious consequences, affecting your health, finances and relationships. There are also links between gambling and mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. In some cases, a gambling problem can cause you to act violently, which is a risk factor for suicide.
Whether you’re playing cards at home, betting on horse races or buying lottery tickets, gambling is not something to be taken lightly. It involves risking your money, possessions and even your life for a chance of winning. Gambling can also damage your self-esteem and cause you to avoid responsibilities or lie to others. Those with serious gambling problems may hide their behaviour from family and friends, and spend more time gambling than they do on other activities. Some people are more likely to have a gambling problem, for example if they have a family history of the condition or if they experience trauma or a major financial crisis.
There are a number of different ways to treat a gambling disorder, including counselling, support groups and medication. Several types of psychotherapy are used to address gambling disorders, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, group therapy and family therapy. These techniques aim to change unhealthy thoughts and behaviors and can help you cope with the effects of your addiction.
Cognitive behavioural therapy teaches you to recognize and challenge negative thoughts and behaviors that lead to gambling. It can also help you identify and deal with triggers that make you want to gamble. CBT is a widely-used approach to treating gambling disorders and is supported by research.
Psychodynamic therapy examines unconscious processes that affect behavior and can help you understand how past experiences have shaped your personality and the way you behave. This type of therapy can be helpful for people with a gambling disorder, especially if they have experienced trauma or abuse in their lives.
Unlike some other addictions, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration hasn’t approved any medications to treat gambling disorders. However, psychotherapy can be effective. These techniques are based on the theory that underlying emotional and psychological issues contribute to gambling disorder. You can find a psychologist or psychotherapist who specializes in these areas. These treatments can also help you improve your mood and develop healthier coping skills. You can find professional help through private practice, community agencies and online resources. Some state and national charities also offer support for people with gambling disorders. In some cases, they may provide funding for residential treatment or rehab programs for those with severe addictions. Some organisations also provide debt advice for those who are in financial difficulty due to gambling.