Compulsive gambling isn't just a problem involving finances, but a serious mental condition that can devastate the lives of gamblers and their loved ones. If you believe that you may have a gambling problem, recognizing some warning signs and learning about effective treatment options will aid you in getting the help you need to get your life back on track.
Warning Signs
Most compulsive gamblers make bets for the excitement more than the money, according to the Mayo Clinic. To maintain the thrill, they start to take more risks and place larger bets. Signs of compulsive gambling include gambling longer than planned; frequent gambling until the last dollar is gone; lost sleep over thoughts of gambling; using income or savings to gamble even if it means bills go unpaid; repeated unsuccessful attempts to stop gambling; breaking the law or considering breaking the law to finance gambling; borrowing money to finance gambling; feeling depressed or suicidal over gambling losses; feeling remorseful after gambling and gambling to meet financial obligations, according to the National Council on Problem Gambling.
When to Get Help
Your gambling may be out of control if it is affecting your finances, work life or relationships; if you are spending increasing amounts of energy to gambling; if you have tried to hide your gambling from health professionals or your family, or if you have had to ask others to help you get out of financial trouble because you have gambled all of your money away, according to the Mayo Clinic. If you believe that none of these apply to you but your loved ones have expressed concern about your gambling, the Mayo Clinic says to listen to their concerns as you may be in denial.
Therapy
If you have acknowledged that you have a gambling problem, your next step will likely involve receiving psychotherapy, attending group therapy sessions, joining a self-help group or using a combination of the three. According to the Mayo Clinic, a form of psychotherapy, known as cognitive behavior therapy, may be particularly helpful for compulsive gambling as it helps patients identify unhealthy beliefs and replace them with positive ones. Group therapy and self-help groups may also be helpful in that they offer support and feedback from others who are in the same boat, says the Mayo Clinic.
Medications
Some doctors may prescribe medications that can help decrease gambling cravings, particularly if a compulsive gambler is also dealing with a condition, such as depression, anxiety disorder or bipolar disorder, according to the Psych Central website. Antidepressants, such as Zoloft and Prozac, also used in treating obsessive-compulsive disorders, are examples of medications that may be effective in conjunction with psychotherapy or group therapy, says the Psych Central website.
Recovery Skills
Therapy and medication can be effective, but a compulsive gambler is responsible for following through with the course of treatment. If you are a compulsive gambler, the Mayo Clinic offers some recommendations that can help you resist urges. First, tell yourself that any gambling is too risky. Next, let yourself ask others for help and don't just assume that your willpower should be strong enough to overpower compulsive habits. Also, your number one goal in life right now should be no more gambling and as you cope with this, your other life issues will eventually be managed. Finally, be aware of what situations trigger your betting urges and avoid them as much as possible.
