Problem gambling is a mental disorder that can lead to other problems such as depression and self-harm. There are many ways to overcome your addiction to gambling. These include: strengthening your support system, avoiding social situations that might lead to gambling, volunteering for a cause you believe in, and joining peer support groups. One such support group is Gamblers Anonymous, a 12-step program that is modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous. Each member is assigned a sponsor, a former gambler who provides support and guidance to those who are struggling with gambling problems.
Problem gambling is a mental disorder
If you or a loved one has been experiencing a gambling addiction, you may be wondering what the next step should be. The first step is to realize that problem gambling is a mental disorder. People with gambling addictions may experience a variety of problems in their personal, social, occupational, and legal lives. Addictions are chronic and progressive diseases, and if not treated, compulsive gambling can be deadly. Therefore, you should seek help if you or a loved one is experiencing these problems.
People with gambling addictions may need assistance from a therapist. It is possible to seek help from a therapist or physician to overcome this mental disorder. There are many treatments for this disorder. For example, a brief screening tool can be added to an intake process to identify individuals with gambling addiction. Further treatment options may include comprehensive training and improved cross-sector partnerships. Additionally, the report suggests further research on the causes of gambling harm.
It can lead to depression
To find out if your gambling problem is causing depression, you should speak to a health care provider and seek the assistance of a mental health professional. Your health care provider may ask questions about your gambling habits and may talk to family members to determine if your symptoms are gambling-related. You should be aware that confidentiality laws prevent doctors from disclosing your health information without your written permission. Certain drugs can also trigger compulsive behaviors. Finally, you should discuss any medications with your doctor.
Addiction to gambling can cause a cascade of problems. While the excitement of gambling can temporarily elevate one’s mood, problem gambling can alter the baseline, making it more likely to lead to depression. Moreover, as one gambles more than they intended, their money is wasted, and they try to quit but are unsuccessful, the depression level can rise. Thus, it’s crucial to seek the help of a health care professional if you suspect you have an addiction to gambling.
It can lead to self-harming
When a person starts self-harming, they are often punishing themselves for something they feel is unjust or unfair. The process may have started because of a perceived slight or even a deep hatred towards a person or an event. The person may have a hard time understanding these feelings or linking them to any events. Alternatively, the person may be punishing themselves because they are angry towards someone they can’t communicate with. Whether this is a genuine or displaced anger, the person is often unable to communicate their feelings in the form of self-harm.
While self-harming may not be a common practice, it has been practised for thousands of years and has a long history in many cultures and religions. It was practiced by the Maya priesthood, who cut themselves to obtain blood from the deceased. The Hebrew Bible mentions the cutting of Baal priests, but self-harming is strictly forbidden in Judaism. Even ancient Canaanite mourning rituals involve self-harming, which is described in the Ras Shamra tablets.
It can lead to substance abuse
Problem gambling and substance abuse go hand in hand. While addiction to alcohol and drugs is not a universal trait, people with gambling addiction often suffer from co-occurring disorders. Moreover, the environment surrounding a gambling establishment is often a criminal one. Consequently, the gambling environment is likely to expose a person to substances of abuse. Here are some ways that you can recognize if you are experiencing a gambling addiction.
Problem gambling is a serious problem that can damage the addict’s health. A problem gambler may become an active criminal, if they cannot control themselves. Therefore, it is imperative to seek help if you suspect someone you know is experiencing gambling addiction. Contact a qualified GP, addiction specialist, or a rehab organisation. The more help a person has, the better. The sooner the addiction is identified, the more successful his or her recovery will be.
