How to Treat a Gambling Addiction
If you or a loved one is suffering from a gambling addiction, you may want to learn about ways to treat it. Listed below are some of the symptoms of this problem, how to identify it, and the various treatment options available. If you are a member of Gamblers Anonymous or a similar group, there are many benefits to joining. A Gamblers Anonymous meeting is a 12-step recovery program, similar to Alcoholics Anonymous. In addition, each member is assigned a sponsor, a former gambler who can offer guidance and support.
Problem gambling
Although gambling may be a fun pastime for many, the compulsion to bet can lead to negative consequences, including financial loss and emotional stress. Tribal casinos in New Mexico have voluntarily invested in the Responsible Gaming Association of New Mexico to promote problem gambling awareness. While the term problem gambling implies a gambling problem, the condition does not necessarily mean that the person will not overcome their addiction in time. Instead, it means that their habits may be more serious than they appear.
There are many types of counselling available for problem gamblers. Some offer telephone or in-person sessions. Others offer credit and debt counselling. If these options are not an option, an Ontario Problem Gambling Helpline is available 24 hours a day. Many people wonder if they need to give up gambling before seeking treatment. The counsellors do not want to push you to give up gambling. However, they will not try to make you stop, but instead help you identify the causes of your gambling problem and help you make positive decisions about your future.
Signs of a problem
Despite the fact that many substance use disorders have obvious symptoms, a gambling addiction is often a very discrete disorder. A person may not even notice that they are having a problem with gambling until it has been a long time. While there are some similarities between substance use disorders and gambling addiction, a gambling addiction usually presents with more subtle symptoms. Some of these symptoms can be as subtle as more phone time.
Excessive gambling can lead to a host of emotional symptoms, including a range of negative emotions and even suicidal thoughts. Gamblers can develop suicidal tendencies, especially when they’ve lost everything in the past. They may also experience feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness and may even exhibit self-harming tendencies. The effects of lack of sleep may manifest themselves in a variety of ways, including pale skin, weight gain or loss, and acne or dark circles under the eyes.
Treatment options
Various forms of treatment are available for people who are suffering from gambling addiction. The most common form is therapy, which focuses on challenging harmful gambling thoughts and behaviors. Other options include support groups, such as AA or NA, which follow a 12-step process. Regardless of the type of treatment you choose, you will need to find the right one for your needs and preferences. To find the right one for you, start by researching the various options available.
Some people with gambling addictions have a dual diagnosis with another problem, such as substance use, mood or personality disorders. In such cases, the treatment program must take into consideration these conditions. Often, gambling addicts may need to seek treatment for a substance addiction before they can address the gambling problem. Another option is holistic residential treatment, which provides a therapeutic and private environment in which to recover. Here, your therapist can discuss different options for treatment and assess the best course of action for your specific needs.