Gambling can be a form of self-soothing. It is often a great way to unwind and socialize, and it has also been known to relieve boredom. Other methods of relieving boredom include exercising, spending time with friends who don’t gamble, and practicing relaxation techniques. If you feel that gambling is affecting your life, you may want to seek help. This article will cover the various signs of gambling addiction and the ways in which you can treat it.
Problem gambling
The word problem gambling is often misused to describe a type of problem gambling that has serious psychological, social, and legal ramifications. Earlier, this disorder was referred to as pathological gambling or compulsive gambling. The American Psychiatric Association (APA) now defines this condition as Impulse Control Disorder. Individuals with problem gambling devote a great deal of time and energy to their gambling activities. They may even resort to suicidal behavior.
The National Council on Problem Gambling cites studies showing that 2.2% of adult Americans are susceptible to problem gambling. The organization says this number includes only people who regularly gamble. There are currently three employees at the Connecticut Center for Problem Gambling (CCPG) who are dealing with nearly five thousand Connecticut residents suffering from problem gambling. Furthermore, there are up to 1,000 more people in the path of a struggling addict. Unfortunately, many individuals cannot seek help by themselves.
Signs of a problem
If you notice that your gambling has become a huge problem, you need to take action. It may seem silly or insignificant. But if you don’t take action, the problem will grow and affect your friends and family. Here are some warning signs of gambling addiction. Don’t ignore them, because ignoring them will only make the situation worse. If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to seek professional help.
It is difficult to recognize a gambling problem because a person may not show their feelings or act in an inappropriate way. In fact, they might even lie about their behavior. If you ask them about their gambling behavior, they may become angry and blame you for catching them at an early stage. They may try to hide their gambling habits, but the fact remains that the problem is there. If you feel this way, you should seek help. If you suspect a friend or family member has a gambling problem, you should seek professional help as soon as possible.
Treatment options
If you’ve tried to control your gambling habit but still have failed, treatment is an excellent option. Treatment may involve an outpatient program or a residential one. The goal of these programs is to help you get back on track by addressing the psychological and social impacts of gambling, as well as the underlying triggers of addictive behavior. Behavioral therapy is a common treatment option for gambling addiction. Cognitive behavioral therapy, which focuses on replacing unhealthy beliefs with healthier ones, is another option. Family therapy is also a good option, and may be an excellent way to help you and your family cope with gambling addiction.
While there are many ways to stop gambling, the most important step is to recognize that you’ve got a problem and that you need help. You can consult your primary care physician for an assessment and to determine if you need mental health treatment. A doctor will ask you questions about your gambling habits and may talk with other members of your family. This information will help the physician determine whether you’re experiencing symptoms of gambling addiction. Physical exams can also detect any health problems that may be affecting your gambling habits.