How to Overcome a Gambling Addiction
Gambling involves placing something of value, usually money, on an event that is random and uncertain. It can also involve making a decision that has no financial consequences and involves chance.
While it’s not illegal to gamble in some countries, gambling is highly addictive and has serious health consequences for those who suffer from it. It’s estimated that about two million people in the United States have a problem with gambling and for many, it interferes with their work and family life. Several organisations provide assistance, counselling and support for those affected by gambling problems, including families and friends.
The first step to overcoming gambling addiction is admitting you have a problem. This can take tremendous courage, especially if you have lost a lot of money and strained or broken relationships as a result of your gambling. But it’s important to remember that you are not alone – many others have had the same experience and have successfully broken free from their gambling addiction.
A problem with gambling can impact all aspects of a person’s life and the health of their family, including financial problems, depression, stress, substance abuse, eating disorders and relationship issues. It is therefore essential that you get help if your gambling is causing you, or your family members, any harm.
Some signs that you have a gambling problem include downplaying or lying to family and friends about your behaviour, hiding evidence of gambling activity and continuing to gamble even when it affects your finances, work, education or relationships. Other factors that contribute to gambling problems are personality traits, and coexisting mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression.
If you have a friend or loved one who has a problem with gambling, try to keep an open mind and be supportive. It’s important to understand that gambling is an addiction and that the problem may be more complex than you think. If you have concerns, it’s a good idea to talk about the issue with someone you trust and who won’t judge you – this could be a family member, colleague or counsellor. It’s important to reduce the risk of gambling by limiting your access to credit cards, cash and other sources of funding. You can also reduce your socialising at gambling venues and find new things to do that are not related to gambling. By doing this, you can start to build a more balanced lifestyle.
