Gambling is one form of entertainment activities. However, too much of it can lead to addiction. It is an activity that has ruined the lives of many people. People who have been affected can steal, lie and even blow through their earnings. The chances of recovering from addiction are very high when this problem is detected early. Overcoming compulsive gambling is very difficult sometimes, but it can be done with the assistance of a trained professional. These people have assisted many people in managing their illnesses.
What is compulsive gambling?
It begins when someone places a bet and then becomes addicted over time. The time taken by someone to develop a problem varies among different people. Individuals engaging in continuous gambling are more likely to get addicted as compared to those who gamble occasionally.
Diagnosing of compulsive gambling
This problem is contributed by many factors such as environmental and hereditary. The diagnosis process involves looking for those signs that make a person out of control. Some of the major signs associated with problem gambling include;
- Inability to stop gambling
- Spending more money than you can afford
- Spending a lot of time gambling
- Borrowing money to cover debts incurred from gambling
- Hiding gambling from medical professionals or friends
- Committing fraud or stealing to support gambling
- Ruining if personal relationships
Recognizing addictive gambling
Certain traits such as low self-esteem are associated with compulsive gambling. There are two classes of compulsive gamblers- actions and escape gamblers. Knowing the different traits or characteristics of these gamblers can help you in recognizing them. Action gamblers are known for playing games that involve skills as well as beating the odds. Poker is a good example of the action games. Action gamblers are often self-confident, extroverted, and even arrogant.
On the other side, escape gamblers consider gambling as a distraction from their real life. They can appear unhappy, introverted or withdrawn. These are the guys who approach betting as a means of escaping feelings or problems such as helplessness, guilt or depression.
Other signs associated with compulsive gambling include remorse or guilt following gambling
- Taking more risks gradually
- Overwhelmed by memories of gambling
- Having a preoccupation with this activity
- Effective ways of fighting gambling addiction
Fighting with this problem is very challenging. Having a designated or a sponsor can help you in resisting this activity. You should also make an effort of avoiding those situations and people who encourage betting. The available treatment options include medication, psychotherapy, and support groups.