Gambling involves risking something of value (money or possessions) on an event with a random chance of winning a prize. It is not an activity that is suited to everyone and can become a serious problem when out of control. Compulsive gambling is a mental health disorder and has been linked to a wide range of physical and emotional problems including depression, substance abuse, family conflict and even suicide.
Some people may find that they gamble to escape unpleasant emotions or as a way to socialize, but this isn’t an effective coping mechanism and can lead to more serious problems in the future. Instead, it is important to learn to manage moods and boredom in healthier ways such as exercise, relaxing hobbies or spending time with supportive friends who don’t gamble.
In addition to the psychological impact of gambling, it can negatively affect a person’s family life and work or school performance. If a person becomes reliant on gambling they may start to skip classes or work, which can lead to a lack of income and a growing debt. It can also cause them to neglect their responsibilities, which can eventually result in being warned or even fired from their job, or having bills that are overdue or unpaid.
The underlying issues that caused the gambling disorder must be addressed in order to help the person recover. Some therapies that can help are cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing. In CBT, a therapist will work with the person to identify faulty thinking patterns such as feeling they are “due to win” after a series of losses and teach them tools to change those thoughts and behaviors. Motivational interviewing helps the person examine their ambivalence about changing and creates a plan for action that includes steps to overcome obstacles and achieve recovery.
If the person has a history of self-harm or suicidal thoughts and feelings, it is vital that they seek professional help as soon as possible. In extreme circumstances, untreated gambling can actually kill a person. It is best to seek support from a psychiatrist, therapist or mental health care professional who can offer the right guidance and treatment.
Financial counseling is also available to help the person develop responsible money management skills and limit access to credit cards or other sources of funding for gambling. This can include helping them set a budget, establish spending limits and review bank and credit card statements. It can also be helpful to discuss local referral resources such as certified gambling counselors and intensive treatment programs. It is important that loved ones do not treat the person with a gambling addiction as being immoral or less of an equal member of society, which can contribute to the problem. The person with a gambling disorder needs someone to support them and provide feedback without judgement. This can be difficult, but it is necessary for the recovery process to begin. Loved ones must remember that a gambler who has an addiction cannot see the problem themselves and they need a supportive environment to make changes.