How to Overcome a Gambling Disorder
How to Overcome a Gambling Disorder
Whether it’s placing a bet on a football game, buying scratchcards or playing a slot machine, gambling is about putting something of value at risk for the chance to win a prize. Regardless of whether it’s considered a recreational activity or an addiction, people who gamble can be at risk of developing gambling disorders.
Gambling is a dangerous behavior that can cause financial harm to individuals and families. In addition, it can lead to other behavioral and emotional problems. Fortunately, help is available for those struggling with gambling disorder. Taking steps to overcome the problem is essential for recovering and maintaining recovery.
Most adults and adolescents have placed a bet in some form or another. Although most do so without any problem, a significant number of them develop gambling disorders. Those who have gambling disorders experience severe impairment in their daily functioning, and are at an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and attempts. They may also find themselves deep in debt and unable to repay the money they’ve lost.
The first step in treating a gambling disorder is to recognize the symptoms. The symptoms include a compulsive urge to gamble, lying about gambling activities, and the inability to control spending. In addition, some people who suffer from gambling disorder feel compelled to gamble when they are under stress or experiencing other unpleasant emotions. This can be a sign that the person has underlying mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety.
While it’s not always easy to discuss gambling with a loved one, being direct can make it easier to address the issue. Start by letting your loved one know that you care about them and want them to be happy. Avoid criticizing their gambling habits and putting them on the defensive.
A person who has a gambling disorder needs a strong support system to recover from the problem. This includes family, friends and coworkers. It’s also important to learn healthier ways of relieving unpleasant feelings. For example, instead of gambling, a person can try exercising, spending time with non-gambling friends, or practicing relaxation techniques. It’s also helpful to join a support group for gamblers, like Gamblers Anonymous, which follows a 12-step model similar to Alcoholics Anonymous.
Family members can help their loved ones break the cycle of gambling by setting financial boundaries. For instance, they should not pay off a gambler’s debt or lend them money. They should also ask for transparency with bank and credit card statements. In addition, they should encourage their loved ones to engage in other social and recreational activities that don’t involve gambling.