Gambling Addiction – How to Recognize and Stop Your Gambling Problem
Gambling involves betting something of value on a random event with the intent to win something else of value. It’s a risky venture, but one that can pay off in big ways for some people. Despite its dark side gambling also has some benefits to society. It provides employment opportunities, contributes to education, and is fun for many people.
Whether you’re looking for a quick fix or a long-term solution, the first step is to recognize that you have a problem. That’s not easy to do, especially if you’ve lost money or damaged relationships as a result of your addiction. But it’s important to remember that you’re not alone and that you can seek help. You may even be able to find free help online or in person.
The term “problem gambling” is used to describe a range of behavior, from those who are at risk for developing more serious problems (subclinical) to those who meet Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (Fourth Edition, DSM-IV) diagnosable criteria for pathological gambling (PG). Until recently, the psychiatric community classified PG as an impulse control disorder, in the same category as kleptomania, pyromania, and trichotillomania (hair-pulling). In a move that was widely viewed as a major milestone, the APA moved PG into the section on addiction disorders in its latest version of the DSM, published this past May.
Many people gamble for fun, to socialize with friends, or to escape from work and family obligations. However, some people become addicted to gambling and find it hard to stop. It is estimated that around 20 million Americans have a problem with gambling, and it can seriously interfere with their lives. It is important to know the signs of a problem, such as hiding evidence of your gambling habits, lying to others about your gambling, and chasing losses.
The most effective treatment for gambling addiction is cognitive-behavior therapy, which teaches people how to change their thoughts and behaviors. For example, patients learn to confront irrational beliefs such as the idea that a series of losses or near misses means an imminent win is just around the corner. They also practice implementing healthy coping strategies, such as taking over the management of household finances, having someone else make financial decisions for them, and closing online betting accounts. This helps them regain control of their lives and reduces the harmful effects of gambling. But not all therapies are created equal, and many have varying levels of effectiveness. This is because different therapeutic procedures are based on differing theoretic conceptualizations of pathological gambling.