If you have a love for gambling, you may be aware of the negative impact it can have on your health and well-being. However, there are some warning signs that you may be dealing with a gambling problem. Read on to learn more about the symptoms of problem gambling and how to find the right treatment for you. Listed below are the signs and symptoms of problem gambling and some effective treatments. You can use these tips to curb your urges to gamble.
Problem gambling
Problem gambling affects nearly 1% of the American population. The World Health Organization has classified extreme gambling as a mental disorder. People with gambling problems disrupt their lives and their relationships. Some estimates suggest that up to 340,000 people in the U.S. struggle with problem gambling. However, there is no single underlying cause for this condition. Various genetic, biological, and neurological factors are believed to contribute to the problem. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent this disorder and find help for those suffering from it.
Among the many available treatment options, problem gambling counselling is one of the most effective. These sessions involve counseling and self-help techniques. In addition, problem gamblers can get credit and debt counselling. An Ontario Problem Gambling Helpline is available 24 hours a day. One common question people have is: Do I have to quit gambling to attend problem gambling counselling? No, problem gambling counselling is not meant to force someone to stop gambling. Counsellors must be able to identify whether or not a person has a gambling problem and provide options.
Signs
A person who suffers from compulsive gambling is often in an extremely unhappy mood, and can lead to double lives. A gambler may spend most of his or her time in front of the computer and away from family and friends. Mood swings are another sign of gambling addiction, but can be easily confused with normal upset. If you notice that your loved one is in such a constant state of anxiety, it is worth taking a closer look.
If you notice any of these symptoms, you should seek help immediately. Firstly, it is important to identify the source of your gambling addiction. A person with an addiction will lie about where they are, or keep secrets. They may even break the law in order to fund their habit. This can get them arrested or put on probation. Another sign of gambling addiction is denial. Even if you feel you’re having problems with gambling, it’s always best to seek professional help if you want to avoid further damage.
Symptoms
Symptoms of gambling addiction may vary from person to person, depending on the extent of the addiction. People with this disorder are often preoccupied with the thrill of winning money, and will sometimes lie about their gambling habits or engage in illegal activities. Gambling disorder is more than simply playing slot machines or cards, and can also involve betting with friends or spending money on lottery tickets and fantasy football games. This destructive cycle can have serious consequences for a person’s physical, emotional, and financial health.
Some gambling symptoms may be accompanied by a debilitating disorder, such as depression. This condition can result in lethargy, changes in appetite, and general feelings of unhappiness. Treatment for both mental illnesses is essential in the recovery process. Gamblers with depression are often recommended dual diagnosis programs, which address both issues at the same time. Despite the debilitating effects of these treatments, they can sometimes be effective, even with minimal effort.
Treatment
Various factors can increase the risk of developing gambling addiction. These factors include certain biological vulnerabilities, certain ways of thinking, and exposure to social stressors. Treatment for gambling addiction can target each of these elements. Individuals with certain risk factors for pathological gambling include those with mental health problems and alcohol or drug addiction. Low serotonin levels are also thought to contribute to the development of the disorder. Although gambling addiction can be cured, treatment for gambling disorders may still be needed to stop the urge to gamble.
Psychological treatment for gambling addiction involves therapy. Psychoanalysis and cognitive behavioral therapy are common therapies used to address the root cause of gambling problems. A therapist may also use psychoanalysis and group sessions to help the affected person alter his or her thoughts about gambling. If the symptoms of the gambling addiction are associated with a mental health disorder, mood stabilizers may be prescribed to reduce the negative symptoms of this condition. This form of therapy is a good option if the gambling problem is related to a mental health issue.