Many people turn to gambling to relieve boredom, a common cause of a gambling problem. While it’s natural to feel a sense of escapism after a long day at work or school, problem gambling can lead to further problems. There are several ways to combat boredom, including exercising, spending time with friends and family who don’t engage in gambling, and practicing relaxation techniques. If you have found yourself in the throes of an addiction to gambling, it’s important to seek help for your gambling problem.
Problem gambling
It is important to seek help for problem gambling if you suspect that your loved one is struggling with the disorder. Gambling addiction can lead to financial ruin, legal problems, and even loss of career or family. Some people even commit suicide due to their problem. The American Psychiatric Association has created criteria for determining whether or not someone is a problem gambler. These criteria vary, but generally range from No Problem to Severe Problems.
Approximately three percent of the population may be suffering from problem gambling. While gambling is a fun and exciting activity, it can quickly become harmful when a person’s brain changes are impacted by excessive gambling. Experts have called problem gambling an “invisible addiction” because the physical symptoms and outward signs are rarely visible. But when someone has a gambling problem, it is crucial that they seek help and seek professional help to avoid putting their health at risk.
Symptoms
While the first and most obvious gambling symptoms are obsession and financial hardship, other problems can result from the addiction. This type of behavior can include gambling on the job, gambling to make up for lost money, and embezzling money. These are all signs that someone is exhibiting symptoms of a gambling disorder. Fortunately, many people can overcome these symptoms, and a gambling problem is often curable. Learn more about these problems and how to spot them.
Many gamblers seek a “high” by abusing prescription drugs. These substances can cause addiction and overdose. Inpatient treatment centers are always recommended for recovering gamblers. Inpatient treatment centers are a safe bet. The Mayo Clinic says that addiction often begins in childhood. While a gambler may feel depressed and hopeless after losing a large sum of money, the first signs of gambling addiction appear in their adolescent years.
Treatments
If you’re suffering from a gambling problem, you might consider seeking treatment. There are various health care providers who specialize in gambling disorders. Some have completed a special certification program to focus on this condition. Look for one by searching for a national or state-certified provider. The American Academy of Health Care Providers in Addictive Disorders or the National Council on Problem Gambling both have lists of certified providers. In addition, you can find out about the state laws regarding gambling.
Psychotherapy is another treatment option for gambling addiction. Similar to substance abuse treatment, psychotherapy is aimed at increasing the individual’s ability to cope with high-risk situations. These risk situations include interpersonal difficulties and environmental settings. The Inventory of Gambling Situations (IGS) is an important tool for identifying high-risk situations. These strategies will teach the individual how to deal with these situations, reducing the chances of relapse and enabling recovery.
Prevention
Prevention of gambling harm is a vital aspect of harm reduction in the gambling industry. Gambling harm is widespread and can affect many different populations. The Commission recognises that some types of gambling are relatively benign and may benefit society, while others can cause great harm to those who participate in them. Harmful gambling products are continuous and involve skill, such as poker machines and casino table games. Other harmful gambling products include sports betting and horse racing. Developing strategies for gambling prevention and harm reduction requires a comprehensive understanding of the risk factors and population groups.
In the Taylor and Hillyard study, researchers found that participation in a school-based prevention program can help raise gambling awareness among students and parents. The students participated in lectures, discussions, and activities about gambling. Parents were invited to attend the presentations and received an information packet. After the program, students’ knowledge of gambling increased significantly. Many students viewed participation in a prevention program as a positive social support from their parents. However, the program’s outcomes were not fully studied.