Problem gambling can have a number of emotional effects. Excessive gambling may lead to suicidal thoughts or attempts. Many people who engage in excessive gambling feel hopeless and depressed after losing everything they’ve worked for. Other symptoms include self-harming tendencies and pale skin. In addition, gamblers can gain or lose weight without sleeping enough, develop acne, and develop dark circles under their eyes. These symptoms can make gambling seem even more impossible.
Addiction to gambling
Getting treatment for addiction to gambling isn’t an easy task. You’ll need a support group or a treatment program to help you overcome your addiction. While it’s difficult to admit that you have a problem, it’s also necessary to get help as soon as possible. It’s also vital to have a supportive friend or family member by your side throughout the long process. You can also learn healthier ways to handle your emotions and boredom, and take up interesting hobbies that won’t interfere with your addiction.
Treatment for addiction to gambling may involve therapy, medication, or a combination of both. Often, treatment includes both therapy and supportive psychosocial services. Professional treatment programs for compulsive gambling can address the disorder, even if it co-exists with a substance use disorder. Treatment may take place in an inpatient facility, or it may be conducted in an outpatient rehab program where the gambler retains more independence while in treatment.
Types of addiction to gambling
Addiction to gambling can be devastating for your financial and emotional life. Problem gamblers have debts ranging from $40k to $70k. They miss work and neglect duties in order to fund their gambling habit. Sometimes, they even resort to illegal activities to raise funds. Eventually, they may become unable to pay off their debts and may even lose their homes. Fortunately, there are ways to overcome this destructive cycle.
The psychiatric community has long considered gambling a disorder, though in recent years, it has been reclassified as a behavioral addiction. Pathological gambling is driven by an intense urge to gamble, similar to drug and alcohol addiction. However, the American Psychiatric Association has recognized that gambling addiction is a form of addiction in its own right. It also has many similarities to addiction to sex and alcohol.
Treatment options for problem gamblers
Many treatments for problem gambling can help reduce the urge to gamble. Behavioral and cognitive therapy, along with antidepressants, may help the person identify unhealthy beliefs and replace them with healthy ones. In addition to these therapies, medications and family therapy may be helpful for problem gamblers. Some of these drugs are antidepressants, mood stabilizers, and narcotic antagonists. If none of these treatments work, other treatments may be more effective.
Individual therapy can help the compulsive gambler identify the triggers that make them indulge in gambling and develop effective coping strategies. Individual therapy is not a substitute for a one-on-one evaluation by a trained clinical professional. Through an individualized assessment, the professional can develop a treatment plan to treat the problem and rebuild a supportive environment. Treatment plans may address various aspects of the person’s life, including their financial situation, relationships, and even their professional life. When you suspect that you may be suffering from a gambling problem, seek treatment as soon as possible. Your health provider can recommend treatment providers.
Addiction to gambling as a form of substance abuse
While substance abuse and gambling addiction share many characteristics, there are also some significant differences between the two. Both disorders are characterized by a compulsive urge to engage in a particular behavior, despite the consequences. Without help, a person with an addiction to gambling or substance abuse is unlikely to be able to stop. Addictions to both substances can lead to serious health consequences. Addictions to alcohol and gambling are different, but both are harmful.
Gambling addiction has been linked to a variety of problems, including sudden death of family members or friends, neglect, feelings of inferiority, and financial instability. When left untreated, the individual may face somatic and psychological problems that interfere with functioning in their everyday lives. In such cases, it is imperative that family members and friends participate in the treatment. If necessary, they can help the individual with money management and debt repayment. Addiction treatment typically lasts six months.
