If you are concerned that you or someone you know might be addicted to gambling, here are some facts to consider. Problem gambling is a serious disease with negative social, psychological, and physical consequences. Gambling addiction is classified as an impulse-control disorder, and it can lead to numerous physical and psychological consequences. Problem gamblers can suffer from headaches, abdominal disorders, and depression. Additionally, problem gamblers can feel hopeless and despondent, and even attempt suicide.
Problem gambling
Three percent of the population may have a problem with gambling. While gambling is a normal part of life for most people, the risk of developing a problem with gambling is too high. While many people have a bad habit that they wish to kick, problem gambling is a serious condition that requires treatment. By recognizing the signs and symptoms of problem gambling, people can put the game in perspective and make better choices. If you suspect you may be a problem gambler, please consult your doctor to learn about treatment options.
People with gambling addictions can affect all walks of life. This addiction develops over many years. Typically, people begin problem gambling because they are looking to make up for losses, or because they enjoy being “in the action.” Eventually, this addiction can interfere with a person’s finances, relationships, and work. Problem gambling can also destroy a person’s reputation and cause problems with their family. It’s important to get the right treatment at the earliest stage possible to avoid the damaging effects of gambling addiction.
Signs of addiction
If you feel like you have a gambling addiction, there are many signs to watch for. One of these is increased denial. Having too much money to spend on gambling is an important sign of an addiction, but it’s difficult for the addicted person to recognize this. If you notice these signs, talk to your loved ones to find out if there’s a problem. They might be able to help you deal with the problem.
Another telltale sign of an addiction to gambling is compulsive behavior. People who engage in compulsive gambling habits often have other mental health issues. It’s possible to become addicted to gambling just by watching other people gamble. People who suffer from gambling problems may also be genetically predisposed. Likewise, people with certain personality traits and ethnicity are more prone to gambling addiction than those without. In any case, recognizing these signs will help you stop your gambling habit before it gets out of control.
Treatment options
There are several treatment options for gambling addiction, which differ based on the severity of the problem. While outpatient and inpatient treatment is available, inpatient rehab is geared to those suffering from more severe gambling problems. However, many people opt for both outpatient and inpatient treatment. Inpatient rehab is more intensive, involving a long stay in a rehab facility. This is a good option for those suffering from a serious gambling problem.
While people who suffer from gambling addiction may resist therapy, it is important to remember that therapy can help them regain control and heal their relationships and finances. If your family has been impacted by the gambling addiction, you can try family therapy to help restore normalcy to the situation. While restricting access to gambling is difficult, a family-oriented approach will help your loved one focus on the problem itself and work on changing the harmful behaviors that lead to it.
Impact on health
A harmonized place-based approach is needed to combat harmful gambling. This method draws together communities and statutory and non-statutory sectors to identify where prevention, treatment, and harm reduction are most needed. The PHE has outlined a framework for place-based planning that incorporates a population health triangle. This framework stresses the importance of bringing together government, civil, and voluntary sector interventions to tackle gambling. It can also be applied to other forms of harm reduction, such as restricting access to gambling products.
Moreover, harms from gambling exceed those of other major health threats, including osteoarthritis, diabetes mellitus, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Globally, gambling causes an estimated two-thirds of the health-related costs of alcohol and major depressive disorders. This is despite the fact that low-risk gamblers are disproportionately affected. Despite the evidence, it remains necessary to implement a comprehensive, health-inclusive policy approach to protect vulnerable populations from gambling harms.