Problem Gambling Addiction
When one considers gambling, it can be easy to see how it can be addictive. After all, who wants to spend their hard-earned money on something that is just a risk? While it may be true that the risk of losing is indeed very high when it comes to gambling, it is not true that it is impossible to win. Gambling is basically the same as with many other activities in that there is a risk involved but with probability on the side of success. Gambling therefore requires three ingredients to be present: risk, consideration, and a reward.
Because there are so many factors that go into deciding whether a person will actually “win” or “lose” at gambling, many people with a gambling problem often view it as an addiction. Addiction, however, is a problem because there are those who simply cannot stop gambling no matter how much they try. The issue of addiction is important in that those suffering from gambling addiction are often looking for a solution to alleviate their problems, but without addressing the underlying causes of the addiction, no amount of temporary relief will do.
The problem of addiction is particularly important in that many gambling addicts suffer from both psychological addictions and physical addictions. The problem of gambling addiction has been addressed before in terms of treating addictions to drugs and alcohol. However, gambling is unique because its main factor is the chance to win. People gamble for a reason – either to have some form of thrill, to win money, or to simply pass the time. Gambling addicts therefore require a unique type of treatment, one that addresses the addiction to gaming.
The physical addictions that gambling addiction typically stem from include those that deal with anxiety, depression, stress, and high blood pressure. These problems are generally treated by medications such as anti-depressants or beta blockers. However, the problem is that these medications only treat the symptoms of these medical conditions, meaning that the underlying causes are still untouched. This means that these addictions will be left in control and will often times lead to higher risk factors, such as substance abuse. Gamblers then turn to drugs such as cocaine and alcohol in order to alleviate the stress that their lack of control has caused. Addictions are then left in control of the gambler and often lead to criminal activities.
It is also important to recognize that not all addictions to gambling behavior are the same. Those who deal with merely gambling behavior may show no signs of any addiction while others may manifest signs of clinical depression or social withdrawal. Those with gambling addiction will often gamble on a daily basis and may do so in public, sometimes for hours. However, they may not feel any negative affects from this type of gambling behavior and will rationalize that the benefits of gambling outweigh the negative aspects. Unfortunately, this does not mean that they are not suffering from addictions and should seek treatment.
The first step towards treating your problem gambling addiction is seeking help from a qualified professional who will be able to help you with your addiction and or addiction to drugs. Once you receive treatment, it will help you overcome the problem gambling disorder. Gambling addiction can be treated, but it is imperative to start with the right tools and guidance in order to reach full recovery and become a better person.