The Facts About Compulsive Gambling. Is It Treatable?
Compulsive gambling is a progressive behavior disorder in which an individual has a psychologically uncontrollable preoccupation and urge to gamble. Compulsive gambling is driven by an uncontrollable impulse to take risks that eventually undermines everything else in the gambler’s life. Compulsive gambling is a disorder characterized by an inability to resist the impulse to gamble, despite negative consequences. Compulsive gambling is not a bad habit but rather a life threatening disorder.
Gambling Gambling becomes a problem anytime it negatively affects any aspect of your life. Gambling is a common behavior that is not considered a disorder until the symptoms listed above are exhibited. Gambling takes priority over work, school, family, and other life aspects. Gambling for these individuals is tied to their self-esteem. When they are introduced to gambling, they find that winning money wins them attention and approval.
Money Do I need to bet with money in order for it to be considered gambling? While most people gamble with money, others bet with things they own, such as CDs, jewelry, clothing or something else. It’s not the amount of money or value of the item that you risk losing that determines whether you’re gambling. People who gamble risk losing more than money or the things they own or value. They may betray the trust of loved ones by concocting outrageous lies as to where lost money has gone.
Anonymous “Compulsive gambling is an illness, progressive in nature, which can never be cured, but can be arrested,” according to the Website Gamblers Anonymous. A wide range of programs exist, ranging from Gamblers Anonymous to inpatient treatment centers. 12 step programs, such as the one offered by Gamblers Anonymous, work well for many people. But there is anonymous professional help available right now for anyone who asks.
Information The following organizations are helpful in providing lists of treatment centers, bibliographies, addresses for contacting researchers in this field, and other information: National Council on Problem Gambling, 445 West 59th Street, New York NY 10019, telephone (800) 522-4700. The first step is to obtain candid information about the disease and the available treatment options. Gambling Addiction Information Line is 1-877-565-2112. Its how you play that makes it fun, or frustrating, or dangerous. Please contact your doctor for more information on Gambling Addiction.
Conclusion Compulsive gambling is a problem that exists in other countries and in the United States. However, just like other addictions, compulsive gambling is diagnosable and treatable. Treatment for compulsive gambling is similar to therapies for other forms of addiction. If nothing else, “What’s needed,” experts say, “is a greater public awareness that compulsive gambling is a serious problem.”
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