Quitting gambling is not an easy task. Even with a support group or a treatment program, it may be hard to stop gambling without professional help. Although supportive friends and family are important, they may not be sure how to help a friend stop gambling. Fortunately, there are many options available. Read on to learn more. There are several benefits of treatment programs for people with gambling addiction. The treatment process can help a person recover completely from this problem.
Problem gambling
The term problem gambling has existed for centuries. Emil Kraepelin defined it as a “gambling mania.” The DSM-IV, or Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, has updated its criteria for problem gambling. The new criteria are based on more extensive research, including surveys of 222 compulsive gamblers and 104 substance-abusing social gamblers. Researchers use a cluster analysis to identify nine symptom categories, including compulsive gambling.
Problem gambling is a serious behavioral condition that causes emotional, financial and legal consequences. It can be mild or severe, and it can worsen over time. Previously, it was classified as pathological gambling, compulsive gambling, or impulse control disorder. The American Psychiatric Association defines it as “a condition in which a person’s compulsive gambling significantly impairs his or her life and the lives of others.”
Signs of a problem
If you have a loved one who plays gambling, you should watch out for signs of a gambling addiction. The person might express guilt or remorse after spending money to play poker or place a bet. These are also signs of an addiction, and you should seek help as soon as possible. You may also notice a change in personality, or the person may disappear for long periods of time. However, warning signs may differ a bit for adolescent individuals. They might begin to lie about their whereabouts and accuse others.
The emotional symptoms of excessive gambling can include depression, suicidal thoughts, and self-harming behaviors. As with any addiction, the person may feel hopeless after losing everything they have worked for. In addition, sleep deprivation can result in pale skin and dark circles under the eyes. Further, excessive gambling may also cause depression, mania, and even bipolar disorder. Even if the person is unaware of any mental health problems, the gambling habit may be a cause of the person’s misery.
Treatment options
There are many types of treatment options for gambling addiction. Inpatient rehab programs are geared toward individuals with severe gambling addictions. Other types of treatment may include outpatient rehab programs that focus on treating the symptoms of the gambling problem without the intervention of trained medical professionals. Treatment options should be individualized to the specific person and their unique needs. Listed below are a few of these options. To learn more about your options, read on. Also, remember to seek help early.
Problem gambling often co-occurs with other addictions. Not only does problem gambling lead to financial loss, it also leads to extreme emotional disturbances. These disturbances can manifest as psychiatric conditions. Treatment for these co-occurring disorders should address the entire problem. Treatment is most effective when both disorders are treated simultaneously. Here are some effective treatments for gambling addiction. You can begin by identifying the symptoms of your problem gambling and seek treatment.