Gambling addiction is a serious issue that affects people from all walks of life. It’s a condition where people experience excessive cravings and need to gamble more to achieve the same high. This cycle can spiral out of control as cravings increase, and weakened control over urges to gamble increases. It has negative physical and social effects and can even affect a person’s professional life. If you’ve ever pondered whether or not you’re prone to becoming addicted to gambling, consider some of these tips.
Defining gambling
The Gambling Act of 2005 defines gambling as “an enterprise that involves risk of loss or profit, with a potential for reward” – and it’s unclear when the word “gambling” falls outside that definition. As a result, there’s much debate over what constitutes gambling. Imogen Moss, a solicitor at Poppleston Allen, provides a helpful definition for determining whether a particular activity is gambling.
Signs of a gambling addiction
Gambling addiction is a very serious problem and is a sign that the person needs help. Addicts often resort to illegal acts to fund their habit. They may even steal from others to fund their habit. Such actions are dangerous because they can land the person in jail or probation. Gambling addiction is a serious issue and you need to act fast. Signs of a gambling addiction include:
Treatment options
There are several treatment options for gambling addiction. One option is residential treatment, which offers time and professional support to individuals with serious gambling problems. Residential treatment also addresses the triggers of addictive behavior and teaches coping mechanisms. Individuals may also choose to receive group treatment, such as Gamblers Anonymous. However, residential treatment for gambling addiction isn’t always necessary. For some, a day program is enough. Others may need a combination of the two.
Medications for gambling addiction
While there are no FDA-approved medications for gambling addiction, they may be an option for some people. Antidepressants, mood stabilizers, and opioid antagonists can reduce the addictive behaviors associated with the problem. Although these medications are not intended to cure gambling addiction, they may help gamblers cope with their problem by treating co-occurring disorders. A family member or friend’s support is essential for successful recovery.
Helping a loved one overcome a gambling addiction
There are several important steps to take when helping someone overcome a gambling addiction. First, it is important to understand the negative consequences of gambling. If the person gambles to meet his or her financial needs, ask them how much money they are saving each month. If the person is married, ask him or her if they are okay with the gambling. These non-confrontational statements can trigger strong emotions, so be prepared.