Gambling Addiction – Symptoms of Problem Gambling

Gambling

You may have difficulty admitting to yourself that you have a gambling problem. If so, you can find professional help online. BetterHelp matches you with a licensed therapist online. BetterHelp is a reader-supported website, which means I may receive a small commission if you click a link on this page. Admitting to yourself that you have a gambling problem is difficult, but remember that others have been there, done that, and gotten help.

Problem gambling

The term “problem gambling” has been used for centuries. Emil Kraepelin’s 1907 description of “gambling mania” is one of the first to identify it. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) published in 1980 revised the criteria for defining problem gambling. Since then, the criteria have evolved to be more evaluative, based on surveys of 222 compulsive gamblers and 104 substance-abusing social gamblers.

In the United States, the prevalence of problem gambling among adolescents has been reported at 68%, with a prevalence of 1.0% to 4.4%. There are large differences between states, but overall rates are similar across countries. In Canada, two national surveys have reported rates of 61.4%, 2.2%, and 70%. However, the prevalence of problem gambling among adolescents has varied greatly in other countries, such as the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Scandinavia.

Types of problem gambling

There are several different types of problem gambling, and identifying these individuals is critical. A good place to start is by identifying the factors that contribute to their addiction. If they spend a significant amount of time gambling, they may also have poor eating habits. In addition to a high financial risk, these people may also suffer from other negative consequences, such as strained relationships, alienation, failure to meet obligations, and a host of others.

The most common and rarest forms of problem gambling are social and professional gamblers. Social gamblers may pretend to be social and use their gambling as an entertainment activity. The only difference between social gamblers and professional gamblers is that the former consider gambling a legitimate form of recreation, and the latter considers the costs to be purely entertainment. Unfortunately, this addiction is extremely destructive to both the addict and their family.

Signs of problem gambling

Gambling is an enjoyable activity in moderation, but for some people, the urge to gamble is so strong that it interferes with daily life. If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, it can be difficult to identify the symptoms of the problem and how to get help. Signs of problem gambling include a number of negative symptoms that you should watch out for. Listed below are a few of the most common symptoms of gambling addiction.

Lack of self control. Ultimately, excessive gambling can have severe negative effects on a person’s life. Gamblers may experience suicidal thoughts and attempt suicide. They may also experience self-harming tendencies, and their pale skin and hair may begin to deteriorate. In addition, a lack of sleep can lead to acne and dark circles under the eyes. These symptoms are all indicators of a gambling addiction and should be taken seriously.

Treatment options

There are many different treatment options for gambling addiction. While there is no universal cure for gambling addiction, many people have had success overcoming their addiction. These methods may include cognitive behavioral therapy or motivational interviewing, which are both proven methods for helping individuals overcome their addiction. Self-help groups can also be an effective part of the treatment process. A treatment plan will be customized for the individual, but it may involve a combination of these methods.

Self-help groups, professional counseling, and medications are some of the common methods used to treat gambling addiction. A person may need to address underlying substance or alcohol addiction first. A holistic residential treatment for gambling addiction is a more specialized form of treatment and offers an environment conducive to recovery. It is important to consult with a physician before beginning any treatment, as they can determine if co-occurring disorders need to be treated separately.