Essentially, gambling is putting a value on something uncertain. The risk, prize, and consideration all must be balanced. The question is, how do you tell if you’re having a problem? In this article, you will learn the Types of Problem Gambling and the Treatment options. Also, find out the signs of problem gambling. Once you know what to look for, you can start the path to recovery. If you or someone you know is experiencing the above symptoms, get help today.
Problem gambling
The term “problem gambling” has been around for centuries, and its definition has been changed over the years. Emil Kraepelin’s 1905 description of problem gambling described the condition as “gambling mania.” In 1980, the American Psychiatric Association published the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) that incorporated criteria based on Robert Custer’s work. Researchers then surveyed 222 compulsive gamblers and 104 substance-abusing social gamblers, and then applied cluster analyses to develop nine criteria for problem gambling.
The symptoms of problem gambling vary according to the severity of the disorder, but it usually involves spending money on gambling activities. Gambling behavior can be destructive to an individual’s health, finances, career, relationships, and other aspects of life. Many compulsive gamblers engage in illegal activities in order to fund their habit or repay their debts. This disorder affects many different aspects of a person’s life, and it is a major cause of suicide among other behavioral addictions. But help is available for those who have a gambling problem.
Types of problem gambling
Various types of problem gambling are often associated with a particular type of behavior. Symptoms of problem gambling can vary widely and may be related to other factors such as the individual’s personality, social environment, and preferred activities. Although these factors can all be important, these disorders rarely develop alone. Instead, they tend to occur in conjunction with other psychiatric conditions such as depression and anxiety. Regardless of the cause, the effects of problem gambling are permanent and are often closely related to other aspects of a person’s life.
The potential for a gambling addiction is huge. It is the most expensive addiction of all, as there is no limit to the amount of money that can be lost. Because the rewards of gambling are so insatiable, problem gamblers may be frequently short on cash. They may have to borrow money for basic needs. In some cases, they burn through valuable assets very quickly, making it impossible to secure credit in a legitimate manner. Some problem gamblers even engage in financial crime.
Signs of problem gambling
The most common and disturbing signs of problem gambling are usually not physically obvious. Gambling becomes an addict’s oxygen, food, and air. They may engage in dishonesty, lie, or even steal to meet their gambling needs. In some cases, they might even kill people to satisfy their gambling addiction. If you think you may be experiencing these signs, then it is time to seek help. Here are some common symptoms of problem gambling:
Symptoms of problem gambling may vary by age. While many adults engage in gambling without any negative consequences, children and teens may have trouble controlling the amount of time they spend playing games. Young adults are especially vulnerable to the temptation of problem gambling, as many games ask for micro-transactions. Even older people can develop a gambling problem. Problem gambling is particularly common in people who work in gambling venues. However, it does not mean that all of these signs mean you have a problem.
Treatment options
There are many types of treatment options for gambling addiction. Individuals battling an addiction to gambling may choose therapy to help them understand and challenge their problem. Behavioral therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) target thinking patterns that contribute to addiction. Other treatment options may be support groups similar to AA or NA, which follow a 12-step process. Individuals with a gambling problem should seek treatment from a professional who is experienced in addiction recovery.
Behavioral therapies, such as self-help interventions, can be effective in reducing the barriers to seeking professional treatment. The most accessible of these interventions is attendance at a Gamblers Anonymous meeting. More recent methods of self-help interventions include bibliotherapy and computer-assisted therapies. These methods are not intended to replace therapy, but to enhance recovery. Ultimately, individuals must deal with the underlying problems that cause their gambling.