Gambling Addiction

If you continue to gamble despite negative effects on your finances, life, career, or relationships, you may be addicted to gambling. If you feel the need to hide your gambling habits, gamble money you can’t afford to lose, or struggle to control your gambling, it may be time to seek help.

First, there are harmful financial ramifications of excessive gambling. A problem gambler will often continue to gamble money they cannot afford to lose, then gamble more in hopes of winning it all back. These habits can lead to anxiety, depression, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts or tendencies. Anxiety and depression can cause sleep deprivation, unhealthy weight gain or loss, and other negative side effects.

Some people can gamble occasionally throughout their life without forming an addiction, while others can find themselves trapped in compulsive behaviors fairly quickly. Although it’s impossible to predict who will or won’t become a problem gambler, there are certain qualities that are associated with a higher risk of compulsive gambling. Those with depression, anxiety, or other mental health disorders are more likely to develop a gambling addiction. Having a friend or family member with unhealthy gambling habits also increases your risk. Certain personality characteristics, such as being restless or impulsive, can also contribute to unhealthy gambling behaviors.

Although there is no medication intended to treat gambling, there are medications that treat anxiety and depression. Some gambling addicts may find these anti-anxiety meds or antidepressants helpful, but it’s important to remember that these medications can also be addictive. A holistic treatment plan administered by professionals in a rehab facility can be a safer and more effective treatment alternative for those facing a gambling addiction.

For those who struggle with substance abuse or a mental health disorder alongside their gambling addiction, dual diagnosis can be a critical part of treatment. Behavioral therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), can also be useful in the journey to recovery. CBT helps individuals identify and replace unhealthy beliefs and behaviors. The social support that comes with a 12-step program can also be useful for recovering gambling addicts.