Addicts in the gambling industry tend to need to bet more to get the same “high” they had before. This spirals into a vicious cycle. The craving for more gambling leads to decreased resistance, and this in turn causes weakened control of impulses to gamble. Gambling addiction has both psychological and physical effects, as well as social and professional ones. This is why gambling addiction treatment is essential for preventing any future damage to the person’s life.
Gambling is a common activity
Gambling is a popular activity around the world, with approximately $10 trillion wagered annually. Gambling is typically conducted online or offline, with organized lotteries and football pools being popular in most European and South American countries. While legalized gambling is often a good option for those who wish to pursue gambling as a hobby, it is important to recognize the dangers of excessive gambling. While the profits gained from gambling can be significant, it is important to note that money lost on a gamble is not always refunded.
It can lead to addiction
While gambling is a fun past time, it can quickly become an addiction. Gambling can cause a person to lose their money, and in some cases, people resort to unlawful acts to get money. Whether it’s stealing from family members or taking money from their employers, these actions can have serious consequences. To avoid these consequences, people who suffer from gambling addiction should limit their gambling to the amount of money they can afford to lose.
It can affect well-being
There are two types of costs and benefits associated with gambling: those directly related to the person’s physical and mental health and those indirectly related to the local community’s economic wellbeing. The personal costs are generally nonmonetary, while the interpersonal and societal costs are largely monetary. The economic benefits of gambling include taxes and infrastructure costs, while the personal and interpersonal costs are primarily nonmonetary. The social and psychological benefits of gambling are more apparent in the community’s overall health.
It can trigger other mental health problems
Problem gambling has numerous negative consequences for the sufferer. The risk of developing cardiovascular disease, peptic ulcer disease, and stress-related illnesses is elevated in pathological gamblers. Additionally, they are at a greater risk for major depressive episodes and anxiety disorders. Other problems associated with problem gambling include impulsivity and difficulty making decisions. Additionally, the gambler may experience weight loss or gain, and develop acne or dark circles under the eyes.
It can be a source of stress
Problem gamblers often have a distorted sense of time, which causes them to act in impulsive ways. It’s helpful to consult a book on time management to learn how to prioritize tasks more efficiently. Another book on time management and prioritization strategies is The Disease to Please, by Harriet B. Braiker. Having trouble deciding what to do with your free time? Consider volunteering.
It can be an escape from negative emotions
Problem gamblers may turn to gambling as a way of escaping negative feelings. Negative emotions may include loneliness, boredom, stress, depression, and anxiety. After a long day at work, problem gamblers rush to their local club or pub to avoid thinking about their problems. Those who experience these negative emotions are especially vulnerable to gambling. It is important to address the underlying issues of addiction so that gambling does not become an unmanageable part of one’s life.
Treatment options
Although some people with gambling addiction may resist therapy, it can help you regain control of your life and make amends for damaged relationships. Psychotherapy can also help you learn how to manage your finances, while behavior therapy can focus on challenging your harmful beliefs. You may also want to consider joining a support group similar to AA or NA, which have a 12-step process. These programs are more intensive than those offered at home, and may involve a long stay at a residential facility.