Help For Gambling Problems
There are many resources for people with gambling problems, including self-help groups, gambling helplines, and gambling counseling. Problem gambling is a common affliction that affects up to one in four Americans at one time or another. The National Helpline for Gambling Disorders can be reached at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). Self-help groups can also be found in many states. Regardless of age, it is important to seek out help if you or your loved one has a problem with gambling.
Gambling is addictive, and it is difficult to break a gambling habit. While it can produce feelings of excitement and euphoria, it is also risky. There is always the chance of losing money, even when gambling is only for fun. The Responsible Gambling Council aims to encourage responsible gambling by promoting safer games of chance and advocating for positive change.
Problem gambling can be treated using therapy and lifestyle changes. It can be a symptom of another disorder such as bipolar disorder, depression, or social isolation. Therapy for this condition involves addressing false beliefs and changing unhealthy gambling behaviors. In some cases, counseling will include cognitive-behavioral therapy, which aims to help people learn coping skills for their problem gambling.
Recent research on gambling addiction has suggested that it shares similarities with addiction to other drugs. Both pathological gamblers and drug addicts have similar brain regions that are involved in reward seeking. In addition, recent breakthroughs in neuroscience have led neuroscientists to better understand how addiction works. These findings have changed the way psychiatrists treat those who cannot stop gambling.
Coping with a gambling addiction is a challenging process, and family members often feel shame for their loved ones’ problem. Support is critical in preventing relapse and helping the person manage their finances. By setting limits, family members can hold the problem gambler accountable and prevent a relapse. Taking charge of the family’s finances does not mean micromanaging the problem gambler’s impulses, but it can help protect the family’s credit.
A growing body of research is now showing that there is an increase in problem gambling in young people. However, this could simply be due to broader developmental challenges for this population. A 2005 survey of students in Alberta revealed that 2 out of every 100 students had problem gambling. A more recent study also revealed that four percent of college-aged students showed signs of gambling disorder, which indicates that these young people are at risk.
Problem gambling is a serious problem for many people, and it affects many aspects of their lives. It can lead to relationship and work problems, and it can be a serious financial issue. People with this problem may steal money or run up debt in order to support their gambling habit. They may also turn to theft or fraud to cover up their problem.
Many religious organizations and churches oppose gambling. These groups include Quakers, Mennonites, and Schwarzenau Brethren. The Christian Reformed Church in North America and the Church of Lutheran Confession both oppose gambling.