Dealing with a loved one’s gambling problem can be a difficult challenge. Not only is it difficult for you to deal with the addiction, but you can feel embarrassed about it. But seeking help can ease your burden and show you are not alone. If your loved one has a gambling problem, it is essential to set limits and expectations when managing money. Setting boundaries will help your loved one stay accountable and prevent relapse. Remember that the first responsibility of handling family finances is to protect your own safety.
Problem gambling
The disorder known as problem gambling is the escalating obsession with gambling that threatens one’s life and well-being. Though it’s a complex disorder, many biological, neurological and psychological factors have contributed to the development of problem gambling. To understand the underlying causes, it’s important to understand the behaviors of problem gamblers. These behaviors may signal a looming gambling crisis. Below are some tips to help you recognize the signs of problem gambling.
One of the first steps towards a solution for problem gambling is to seek out a professional who specializes in the area. A certified professional will provide advice on the best way to get the help you need and be free from pressure to gamble. If you feel that you are a victim of problem gambling, you’ll want to get help as soon as possible. There are many options available for problem gambling counselling. There are also many self-help guides and telephone services to help you get started. A free, confidential helpline is available throughout Ontario 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Risk factors
Researchers have identified 10 risk factors for harmful gambling. These factors can be associated with initiation, escalation, urge, and intensity. They will report evidence to support a causal link. The inclusion criteria were derived from an adapted PICO framework, with P being population, intervention, comparison, and outcome. The findings suggest that cigarette smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are risk factors for gambling and are strongly associated with problem and at-risk gambling.
Gambling addiction is more common in middle-aged and younger adults, as well as in families with a history of the disease. Men are more likely to become addicted to gambling than women. Family and peer pressure can increase the risk, and people with a gambling history may find themselves drawn to it as a way to deal with loneliness or stress. But regardless of the type of gambling, the early signs of compulsive behaviors are often the most important.
Treatment
The prevalence of gambling problem is growing, with more than 2 million people suffering from this issue in the U.S. alone. It affects approximately 1% of the global population. Teenagers are more likely to develop problem gambling than adults. During treatment, individuals learn to recognize and avoid the triggers that may lead them to gamble. In addition to identifying the triggers, these treatments can also include distraction strategies and other new leisure activities.
To overcome gambling addiction, you will need to admit to yourself that you have a problem and take a serious commitment to change. You will have to acknowledge your emotional and financial hardship, and may have depleted your savings. In some cases, you may have committed fraud or theft. It’s important to acknowledge your feelings and seek counseling and support. Even if you don’t want to admit to yourself, you must understand that you’re unable to control your impulses and should be willing to seek help.