Dealing With Gambling Disorders

Gambling involves betting money or something of value on an event with the possibility of winning a prize. The event can be anything from a lottery to a sports game. People gamble in casinos, racetracks and on the internet. A small number of people become addicted to gambling and it can have serious personal, family and financial impacts. People with a gambling disorder find it difficult to control their behavior and may have trouble seeking help.

There are many different types of psychotherapy that can be used to treat gambling disorders. These include psychodynamic therapy, which looks at unconscious processes that influence behaviour, and group therapy, in which people describe their problems to each other. Family therapy is also available for families of people with gambling disorder and can help them cope with their loved one’s problems.

Individuals with a gambling disorder often experience a high level of trauma. They may have experienced physical, emotional or sexual abuse, a significant relationship breakup, or bankruptcy. Trauma-informed practice is a approach that recognises the impact of trauma on individuals, improves services and outcomes, and minimises the risk of retraumatisation.

People who have a gambling problem often feel depressed and isolated. They may not spend time with friends or family and tend to lie about their spending. This can affect their relationships and cause them to feel abandoned by those around them. Family therapy can help a person with a gambling problem reconnect with their loved ones and find healthy ways to spend their time.

If someone you know has a gambling problem, it’s important to help them get treatment before the situation gets worse. Taking action now can prevent serious consequences like relationship breakdown, financial difficulties and even suicide. It’s essential to talk about your concerns with them, but make sure you choose a time when you can be alone and are both calm. They may react in a variety of ways, from relief to anger. They may deny, minimise or rationalise their gambling behaviour and blame others.

It is possible to stop gambling, but it’s important to have a plan and stick with it. You can start by writing down your reasons for stopping and reviewing them when the urge hits. This might help you remember why you want to quit – to save your relationship, to spend more time with your children or to pay off debt.

It’s also helpful to have a support network and someone you can call when the urge to gamble hits. You can also find out about self-help groups and support organisations for gamblers. If you’re worried about the effects of gambling on your health, you can get medical advice from a general practitioner. If you’re worried about the impact on your family, talk to a social worker who specialises in gambling harm. You can also contact a counsellor who specializes in family and relationship issues.