Gambling is a form of entertainment in which an individual puts something of value at risk in an attempt to win an amount of money, property, or other valuable item. Certain special populations are at increased risk of gambling, including adolescents, veterans, and the Latino and Asian community. There is no single definition of gambling, but there are many ways to recognize when a person is gambling. Learn about the symptoms of problem gambling and how to get treatment for gambling addiction.
Problem gamblers can have non-gambling health problems
In addition to their gambling-related health problems, problem gamblers may also have relationship or financial issues. Problem gamblers often become skilled at pleading and manipulating others in order to obtain money. Some may even resort to threatening behavior to obtain funds. In this situation, it is important to understand the impact of gambling on your relationships. Listed below are some ways to help your loved one overcome their gambling addiction.
Alcohol and drug use disorders are often co-occurring with gambling. Problem gamblers are also more likely to be overweight and engage in unhealthy lifestyle behaviors, such as excessive television viewing, excessive alcohol consumption, and smoking. Problem gamblers are also much more likely to smoke cigarettes than recreational gamblers. In fact, more than half of them have a substance use disorder. Those with alcohol dependence are particularly likely to develop other health problems.
Symptoms of a problem gambler
Problem gamblers usually have negative consequences beyond their financial problems. They may have relationship, parenting, or legal problems as well. These people often gamble when they are lonely, depressed, or anxious. They may borrow money to fund their gambling habit and even steal from others to alleviate their financial problems. Ultimately, they will need the help of a professional to deal with their addiction. But there are other signs of problem gambling that are worth investigating.
While gambling addiction has many physical manifestations, it is also a psychological disorder that can manifest in subtle ways. It can cause a person to lie about where he or she is, steal items for cash, or deceive others in order to fund their habit. If you suspect your partner or a loved one of a problem gambler, it is vital to seek help. These problems can be treated. Listed below are some symptoms that may be a sign of problem gambling.
Treatment options for a problem gambler
If your loved one is a problem gambler, you should explore your options for treatment. Treatment options for problem gambling range from group-based recovery to intensive therapy. There is no single treatment for this disorder, but by educating yourself about the different options, you can choose the best one for your loved one. Treatment should include both individual and group counseling. Depending on the level of severity, you may also need to undergo medication management.
Some treatment options for problem gambling include behavioral therapy and medication. Cognitive behavioral therapy works by teaching a person to change unhealthy beliefs. It may also involve family therapy. Certain medications, such as antidepressants or mood stabilizers, may also be prescribed for the problem gambler. However, treatment options for gambling addiction should never be based solely on medication. Treatment options for a problem gambler may also include lifestyle changes.