A person with a gambling problem needs to gamble more to get the same “high” from the game. This process is a vicious cycle because as the craving increases, so does the person’s ability to resist the urge to gamble. In time, the individual’s gambling addiction will begin to impact not only their personal lives, but their professional and social ones, as well. Learn more about how to recognize if you’re at risk for gambling addiction.
Information about problem gambling
The National Council on Problem Gambling is an organization dedicated to increasing public awareness about problem gambling and ensuring widespread access to treatment, research and prevention programs. Another good source of information on problem gambling is Gamblers Anonymous, a fellowship of men and women who have overcome their problems through gambling. There is also the Responsible Gaming Council, a non-profit organization that promotes responsible gambling. You can also visit the Problem Gambling Network for additional resources and information.
Gambling is a hidden addiction that has many negative emotional, social and financial consequences. According to the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), about two million adult U.S. citizens suffer from pathological gambling. Of these, four to six million are considered problem gamblers. People who suffer from problem gambling experience an increased obsession with gambling, the chasing of losses, and a loss of control. Information on problem gambling is available online and through trusted sources.
Signs of a problem
If you have noticed your loved one or a friend is gambling a lot, you may have a problem. Financial troubles are an obvious symptom. Besides reduced disposable income, gambling addiction can also cause job loss, home loss, and business failure. Even bankruptcy can result from excessive debt. Gambling problems can also affect young people. Listed below are some warning signs of a problem. If you have noticed any of these signs, you may want to seek professional help.
Inability to stop: If you find it difficult to limit or even quit gambling, you may have a problem with addiction. While you can attempt to limit your gambling, the urge to win keeps coming back and making it impossible to stop. This urge is similar to the withdrawal symptoms experienced by alcoholics. Inability to stop and denial about your addiction are other warning signs. If you feel you have a problem with gambling, it’s time to seek professional help.
Treatment options
Addiction treatment programs can help you overcome your gambling addiction. Depending on the severity of your gambling problem, you may need to seek out residential rehab programs. These facilities offer professional supervision and time to address the causes and triggers of your problem. Treatment programs can also teach you coping mechanisms that will help you stay away from gambling. There are many different treatment options available for gambling addiction. Below is a list of some of the most common types of treatments available today.
Medications – While a variety of medications are available, the most popular ones are antidepressants, mood stabilizers, and narcotic antagonists. Self-help groups can also be effective for those with gambling addiction. If you are unsure of whether or not you need treatment, speak with your doctor about the best course of action. However, it’s always best to seek the advice of a qualified addiction counselor before starting any treatment.
Cost of treatment
People who have a problem with gambling can opt for a residential rehab program. Typically, these programs are recommended for people who have been unable to quit gambling on their own. These programs include professional help and focus on the underlying causes of gambling addiction. People can also learn effective coping mechanisms and stop compulsive gambling. Such programs can last up to a year. Unfortunately, not all individuals will benefit from such a program, so it is important to choose the right one for you.
Depending on the area in which you live, the direct costs of gambling are often higher than the indirect costs. These costs are measured in lost work time and dealing with crises. A study in Quebec found that problem gambling among employees cost employers an average of five hours of late work each month, which translates into $5 million lost wages each year. The financial losses from employee theft and embezzlement, which often fund gambling, also add up.