Recovering From Gambling Disorders

Gambling is an activity in which people stake something of value, such as money or possessions, on an event involving chance and the potential to win a prize. It can take many forms, including lotteries, cards, dice, scratch tickets, video games, racing and animal sports, or sporting events. The most common form of gambling involves the wagering of money, with casinos, racetracks and other venues providing a wide variety of gambling opportunities.

Although gambling is often a recreational activity, some people become addicted to it and experience problems with their health, relationships, work and finances. Problem gambling is a complex issue, and it can be difficult to recognize and admit that one has a problem. Once a person acknowledges that they have a gambling problem, however, there are steps they can take to seek help and recover from their addiction.

The defining feature of a gambling disorder is an enduring preoccupation with gambling and the compulsive urge to gamble. In addition, the person gambles in spite of negative consequences and is unable to control or stop gambling even when faced with financial difficulties. In addition, the individual is unable to determine whether gambling is an acceptable or worthwhile use of time and may lie to others to conceal their involvement in the activity.

In addition to being preoccupied with gambling, a person with a gambling disorder often experiences symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress. Moreover, these symptoms may be triggered by gambling and can make the problem worse. In fact, a study found that about 50% of pathological gamblers also suffer from mood disorders.

Various treatment options exist for gambling disorders, and they include counseling, self-help groups such as Gamblers Anonymous, support from family and friends, and a combination of treatments. There are also a number of medications that can be used to treat the underlying mood disorder and reduce cravings for gambling.

Regardless of which treatment option is chosen, the most important step in recovering from gambling disorder is acknowledging that there is a problem. It takes tremendous strength and courage to do so, especially if the person has lost large amounts of money and strained or broken relationships as a result of their gambling habits. It is also important to realize that recovery from a gambling disorder will not be easy and that slips are expected, but that does not mean that the individual should give up on his or her recovery efforts. Instead, the person should reach out for support and seek assistance from a counselor or support group. In addition, the person should try to engage in other activities and socialize with others. This can be done by visiting family and friends, joining a book club or sports team, or by taking up new hobbies. In addition, the person should attempt to occupy their mind with other things by postponing the urge to gamble for as long as possible. This will give the urge time to pass or weaken.