Dealing With Gambling Problems
Gambling involves risking something of value on an activity that is primarily chance in the hope of realizing a profit. It has existed in virtually every society since prerecorded history, and it is incorporated into many local customs and rites of passage. Although most people gamble recreationally, a small group become heavily involved and experience adverse personal, family, work and financial consequences.
There are various forms of gambling, including lottery games, sports betting and casino games. While there are some important differences between these games, clinical and neurobiological research has grouped them into a single category because of their similar phenomenology.
The most common symptom of problem gambling is an inability to stop. Gambling can affect your health, relationships and performance at school or work, cause you to lose money and even lead to homelessness. It is estimated that more than half of the UK population take part in some form of gambling activity. But for some it becomes a serious addiction that affects their physical and mental health, causes problems in their family, puts them at risk of getting into trouble with the law or even leads to suicide.
If you or someone you know is struggling with this issue, there are things you can do to help them. It is helpful to talk about your concerns with a trusted friend or family member, and it may also be beneficial to seek the support of a professional counsellor. Setting a budget and staying within it is a good way to control spending. You can also reduce risk factors by avoiding credit cards and keeping a close eye on bank accounts and credit card statements. And try to find other ways to socialise or relieve boredom without turning to gambling.
It is also helpful to learn healthier ways of coping with unpleasant emotions and relieving boredom, such as exercising, spending time with non-gambling friends, relaxing or taking up new hobbies. In addition, you can try to manage any underlying mood disorders such as depression or anxiety, which often contribute to gambling problems and make them harder to overcome.
If you’re struggling with a loved one’s gambling, it can be hard to know how much to say and how to handle their requests for “just this once”. Seek professional advice to discuss local referral resources and develop a plan of action for managing finances and credit; set boundaries in managing money; and review bank and credit card statements. You may need to take over financial management if the gambler can’t control their own impulses, but don’t treat them as immoral or a lower-class citizen. Seek support from other families who have dealt with this issue, as well as from a counselor or addiction specialist. This can help you feel less alone, and prevent you from making rash decisions out of desperation or anger. You can also get support from community-based support groups.