Gambling disorder involves repeated problem gambling behavior. This can lead to issues for the family, the person as well as society. Adolescents and adults suffering from addiction problems have trouble controlling their gambling. They can continue gambling even if they cause significant issues.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis of a disorder of gambling requires at most four of these in the last year:
- It is necessary to bet on more money to attain the level of excitement you desire.
- Uneasy or angry when trying to reduce or cut back on gambling.
- Inconsistent efforts to manage and cut down on or end gambling.
- The thoughts that come to mind frequently concerning gambling (such as recalling past gambling or planning for future gambling).
- Many times, we gamble when we are stressed.
- After gambling losses and regaining them, many gamblers return to even. (This is known being “chasing” one’s losses.)
- Cover-ups to cover up gambling.
- Losing or risking a relationship, job, or even a job or school possibility due to gambling.
- Relying on others for help in the case of money issues resulting from gambling
Patients with a gambling disorder may suffer from periods when symptoms decrease. The gamble may not be to be a problem during periods of more intense symptoms.
Gambling disorders tend to run within families. Stress and social inequity, especially among women, could be risk factors. The symptoms can start in adolescence, or even as late as adulthood. Men tend to develop symptoms at an earlier age. Women tend to begin later in the course of.
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Treatment
Certain people are able to stop gambling by themselves. However, many need assistance in addressing their gambling issues. One in ten suffering from gambling disorder seeks treatment.
Gambling affects people in different ways. Different strategies may be more effective for different individuals. There are a variety of therapies utilized to treat gambling-related problems, including cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) psychodynamic therapy(or group therapy), or family therapy.
A counselor can aid people better understand gambling and consider how it affects their family and them. It also helps people think about alternatives and resolves issues.
There aren’t any FDA-approved drugs for treating gambling disorders. Certain medications can be helpful in treating disorders that are co-occurring, such as anxiety or depression.
Family and friends’ support is essential in a person’s rehabilitation from addiction to gambling. But only the person can make the decision to stop the behavior.
Counseling can help:
- Control your gambling.
- Restore family relations.
- Take care not to bet.
- Manage stress and other issues.
- Find other activities while you’re bored.
- Get your finances in order.
- Keep recovering and stay clear of triggers.
Support Groups and Self-Help
Support groups, like Gamblers Anonymous or Alcoholics Anonymous, use peer assistance to help other people stop gambling. A few studies have proven that physical exercise can benefit those suffering from gambling disorders. Numerous states have helplines for gambling and other forms of assistance. A National Helpline is available at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
Strategies to deal with cravings
- Get help. Reach out to a trusted friend, or family member. Join an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting.
- You can distract yourself by engaging in other activities.
- Postpone gambling. The time you give yourself can let the urge pass or decrease.
- Pause for a second and take a moment to think about what could happen if you bet.
- Do not be isolated.
“Dos” and “Don’ts” for Partners, Friends, or Family Members
Do
- Get the help of other people who have similar issues; join an online group of self-help for families, such as Gam-Anon.
- Recognize the good qualities of your partner.
- Be calm when talking to a person who has an addiction to gambling.
- Inform them that you seek assistance for yourself. Gambling affects you (and maybe your children).
- Help children understand the dangers of gambling.
- Be aware of the necessity for treatment of gambling problems and be aware that treatment may take some time.
- Establish boundaries for managing money. Take control of the family’s finances, and review statements from your credit and banks.
Don’t
- Do a lecture, preach, or let yourself get out of control
- Remove the gambler from your family and social activities
- You can expect immediate recovery or the problem is resolved once the gambling ceases
- Bailout the gambler
