If you’re having difficulty controlling your urges to gamble, you may have a problem with gambling. This can negatively affect your life. If you’re not sure how to identify this problem, visit a gambling counsellor. They’re free, confidential, and available around the clock. Read on to learn the symptoms of problem gambling, how to deal with it, and how to get help. The following are just some of the many resources you can turn to for help.
Problem gambling
What is problem gambling? Problem gambling is a form of compulsive gambling that interferes with one’s life and affects all areas. The symptoms of pathological gambling include an increasing preoccupation with gambling, increased need to bet money, and chasing losses. It also affects the person’s relationship with family and career. A problem gambling coalition, such as the Problem Gambling Coalition of Colorado, works to reduce harm caused by this behavior and promote treatment and research.
Help is available in the form of problem gambling counselling. There are many resources available, including online and telephone help for problem gamblers. An Ontario Problem Gambling Helpline is open 24 hours a day. Some people wonder if they need to quit gambling before getting help. Often, counselling does not require a person to give up gambling to begin treatment. A counsellor will not pressure someone to stop gambling just to end the session. However, a problem gambling counsellor can help a person change his or her behavior and find ways to improve their life.
Signs
While the signs of gambling addiction may not be as obvious as those of alcohol or drug addiction, they are indicative of a problem. Symptoms of gambling addiction may include depressed mood, irritability, and restlessness. These are all symptoms of emotional withdrawal, caused by a person’s obsession with gambling. Addicts perceive a need to gamble in order to feel happy. This behavior can be damaging and even lead to criminal charges.
Some people with a gambling problem may be spending money more than they originally planned. They might be borrowing money to finance their gambling habit, or they may spend a large percentage of their income without paying bills. Other signs of gambling addiction include a lack of sleep and thoughts of gambling. It is important to be cautious of anyone who suggests a gambling activity. Those who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs should be monitored closely to avoid enabling them to continue gambling.
Symptoms
If you are experiencing any of the above gambling symptoms, it may be time to seek help. Often, gambling can become addictive and cause problems for both the gambler and their family. In order to identify compulsive gambling symptoms, you must first understand the symptoms of each disorder. Then, you can decide on a course of treatment that will help you deal with each. The symptoms of gambling addiction may include a denial that can be difficult to overcome.
In addition to the emotional and financial stress that comes from gambling, the individual and family relationships can suffer. Many times, children are the victims of emotional distress. In addition to the financial consequences, people suffering from gambling addiction often face physical problems as well. Gambling addiction is associated with an increased risk of alcohol and drug abuse. While there are no specific gambling symptoms that can be diagnosed in children, parents should be aware of these signs and seek treatment. The symptoms of gambling addiction vary from person to person.
Treatment
A mental health professional can diagnose gambling addiction through a comprehensive assessment. He or she will analyze the patient’s gambling behaviors and assess any medical or psychological conditions that may contribute to compulsive behavior. A psychiatric assessment may also be done to identify underlying mental disorders that may be causing excessive gambling. In the United States, gambling addiction is formally diagnosed using the DSM-5, published by the American Psychiatric Association. The PGSI is a similar assessment tool used in other countries.
Psychotherapy may be a good option for people with problem gambling. Therapists will use techniques like cognitive behavior therapy to replace destructive beliefs with healthier ones. During this therapy, problem gamblers will learn to recognize and change the negative thinking patterns that contribute to their addiction. They may also learn how to cope with family and work relationships that are affected by gambling. Regardless of which method is most appropriate for a patient’s particular situation, therapy can help them get back in control of their lives.
