How to Overcome a Gambling Addiction
Gambling involves placing a bet on something with the hope of winning money. This can include betting on a football team to win a match, or buying a scratchcard. The gambler chooses an event to bet on and matches this to ‘odds’ set by the gambling company – these odds will determine how much the person could win or lose.
Many people struggle with gambling addiction. While the causes of this can vary from one person to another, some common features are found in these individuals. These include:
A distorted view of ‘normal behaviour’
A common feature of problem gambling is that the person has a distorted view of ‘normal behaviour’. This can be because they are surrounded by others who also gamble, or they may have an early exposure to gambling. In some cases, the person may even have a family history of gambling.
This can have a huge impact on the individual, both psychologically and socially. It can result in debt, depression, isolation and other issues. It is important for the person to recognise the negative impacts and seek help.
Negative impacts can have a long-term effect on the life of the gambler, and can be observed at multiple levels: financial, personal relationships, work and health and well-being. They can also have a significant impact on the lives of their family members and friends, and even their community/society. These impacts can be measured at the individual, interpersonal and community/societal levels using metrics such as disability weights (DWs).
Escape coping
Gambling is often used as an escape from reality and can provide an emotional rush similar to taking drugs. It can also be a way to meet other needs, such as a sense of belonging or status. Casinos are built around this principle, promoting the idea that gambling can make you feel important and special.
Lack of awareness of the harms
Many people who have a gambling addiction don’t realise that it can cause real harm, and may be in denial that their behaviour is harmful. Consequently, they may not seek help for their problem.
The good news is that it is possible to overcome a gambling addiction. There are a number of things that can be done to get help, including:
Building a support network
If you think you have a gambling problem, it’s important to surround yourself with supportive people. This can be a great help in your recovery, so consider joining a club or group, such as a book club, sports team, or volunteering for a charity. You can also join a peer support program, such as Gamblers Anonymous, which is based on the 12-step model of Alcoholics Anonymous. These programs can offer guidance and support from people who have successfully overcome their gambling problems. You can also access residential treatment and rehab, which are designed for people who have severe gambling addictions and need round-the-clock care. These programs can be costly, but can be more cost effective than continuing to gamble and suffering from the effects of your addiction.
Gambling involves placing a bet on something with the hope of winning money. This can include betting on a football team to win a match, or buying a scratchcard. The gambler chooses an event to bet on and matches this to ‘odds’ set by the gambling company – these odds will determine how much the…