Helping Someone With a Gambling Problem

Gambling is the act of placing something of value, typically money, on an event that has a chance of generating a different outcome. This can be done with anything that can be a stake: lotteries, casino games, cards, dice, instant scratch tickets, bingo, slots and machines, race tracks, animal races, and even sports events. Many people find gambling exciting and fun, but others become addicted to it and start risking more and more of their money. This is because some people have genetic or psychological predispositions to become pathological gamblers, and gambling can cause dramatic changes in the way that brain sends chemical messages.

The term disordered gambling is used to refer to a range of behavior, from behaviors that place individuals at risk for more serious problems (subclinical) to those behaviors that meet the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (Fourth Edition) diagnosable criteria for pathological gambling (PG). The percentage of American adults who report having a gambling problem varies by a number of factors, including gender, age, and type of gambling behavior.

While some people gamble for fun and enjoy the thrill of winning, others are unable to control their gambling and end up losing everything they own. Fortunately, there are ways to help someone with a gambling problem and get them back on track.

One option is to learn to relieve unpleasant feelings in healthier ways, such as exercising, spending time with non-gambling friends, practicing relaxation techniques, and taking up a new hobby. Another is to set boundaries in managing family finances. If a loved one has a strong desire to gamble, it might be a good idea for the family to discuss taking over financial management to help prevent their relapse into gambling addiction.

It is also important to understand how to recognize signs of a gambling addiction in yourself or in your loved ones. For example, you may notice that you are starting to gamble when you don’t have any other interests or if you begin to spend more time on gambling than with your friends and family. You may also find that you are constantly thinking of ways to win more money and are obsessed with the idea of being rich. If you are experiencing any of these signs, it is important to seek professional help.

A person with a gambling problem can be helped through therapy and support groups. There are a variety of programs available, from inpatient or residential treatment to outpatient therapy and support groups. Family therapy and marriage, career, and credit counseling can also be beneficial in helping to repair relationships and rebuild finances. In addition, online support groups are a great resource for those suffering from gambling addiction and can provide a safe environment for people to discuss their struggles with other people who have similar issues. Ultimately, it is important to remember that recovery from gambling addiction takes commitment and time. However, it is possible to overcome this challenge and lead a happy and fulfilling life.