If you are struggling with gambling, you can seek professional help to overcome your addiction. Counseling is free and confidential, and it is available at all hours. It is an ideal way to overcome problems with gambling that affect your life. The good news is that there are several treatments available. These may include medication, therapy, or a combination of all three.
Problem gambling
Problem gambling is a serious issue and can cause financial, relationship, and legal issues. While it may seem that you’re powerless to stop the bad habits, it can be done. With the right help, problem gambling can be controlled and can even help you repair your relationships. Problem gambling can also be a cause of mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts.
A problem gambler’s gambling activities may lead to a number of negative consequences, including financial ruin, legal issues, and even loss of family and career. In some extreme cases, a gambling problem can even lead to suicide. The National Council on Problem Gambling’s self-assessment tool can help you identify whether your gambling habits are causing you harm.
Treatment options
Various treatment methods are available for gambling addiction. CBT, a common approach, can help patients see the consequences of their gambling behaviour and plan steps to overcome them. These steps may include self-exclusion from casinos or handing over control of finances to a third party. Depending on the severity of the problem, treatment may be combined with 12-step programs, family therapy, or a combination of all three.
The primary goal of treatment for gambling addiction is to change a person’s behavior and eliminate relapses. Although many patients recover on their own, many others require professional help. If the level of addiction is low, a patient may be able to use some self-help techniques such as strengthening a support group or seeking treatment for underlying mood disorders.
Cost of problem gambling
The cost of problem gambling is not a small one. The social cost alone can be up to $6 billion a year. In addition to financial devastation, it can lead to poor health and other problems like substance abuse and depression. In addition, people who engage in problem gambling often experience suicidal thoughts.
Costs are measured differently by different studies. Some studies focus on the cost to the individual, while others focus on the social costs of problem gambling. Other studies focus on crime, financial difficulties, and disruptions of interpersonal relationships. Many studies use small sample sizes and have no control group.