Gambling can be a self-soothing behavior, a way to relieve boredom, or a form of socialization. However, gambling can be unhealthy. While it is perfectly legal to gamble, it can cause mental and physical problems. In order to combat problem gambling, you should learn to recognize the signs of compulsive behavior and take steps to avoid it.
Problem gambling
Problem gambling is an addiction to gambling, which is defined by the National Council on Problem Gambling as “pervasive or recurrent behaviors that interfere with one’s personal or social functioning.” Individuals with a problem gambling habit typically engage in gambling despite significant social, interpersonal, or legal problems. They may even lie about their behavior.
Problem gambling affects both adults and children and can have a serious impact on a person’s life. Gambling addiction can cause financial, emotional, and family problems. It can also result in physical harm and can even damage one’s health.
Compulsive gambling
If you think you may have a compulsive gambling problem, seek help immediately. Counseling and therapy may be helpful. For example, cognitive behavioral therapy may work to replace unhealthy beliefs with healthier ones. Other forms of treatment may include family therapy and addiction medicine. Drugs such as antidepressants and mood stabilizers may help treat compulsive gambling.
Compulsive gambling and substance abuse share many of the same risk factors. A compulsive gambler gets a psychological high from gambling, which reinforces the urge to gamble more. Meanwhile, people who have substance abuse problems may also use drugs or alcohol to get the same high.
Legality of gambling
There’s a lot of confusion surrounding the legality of gambling in the US. While there are no federal laws prohibiting gambling, there are state-specific laws that may make the activity illegal. For example, if you live in Nevada and want to play blackjack online, you cannot do so unless your state has passed a gambling law requiring that you do so.
While gambling is illegal in most states, there are some exceptions. For example, most states have state lotteries, which usually benefit local education. In addition, many states permit gambling at tribal and commercial casinos. In addition, about half of the states allow bets on horse races. In November, eight states legalized sports betting, with 18 more expected to follow suit by 2020. Currently, only four states allow online gambling.
Mental health issues associated with problem gambling
Problem gamblers are at risk for a variety of mental health issues. One recent study revealed that two out of three of them experienced some type of mental illness as a result of their behavior. These symptoms include mood disorders, anxiety, and personality disorders. Moreover, the impact of gambling on a person’s life can be devastating, resulting in cashing out retirement and college savings or taking out multiple credit cards.
Fortunately, problem gambling can be successfully treated. Licensed behavioral health professionals can diagnose problem gambling and prescribe treatment. Some of these specialists include addiction counselors and family therapists. Additionally, there are several counseling options available to help those who want to recover from problem gambling.
Ways to overcome a gambling addiction
There are many ways to overcome a gambling addiction, but most of them involve taking action to stop the behavior. The first step is to recognize what triggers your problematic gambling and make a plan to avoid those situations and people. This may involve cutting off contacts with your gambling buddies or avoiding certain places. You may also need to develop specific strategies to deal with these situations. Following through with these strategies will help you feel more confident as you face your triggers.
Another important strategy is to strengthen your support system. Getting support from your family and friends will help you overcome your gambling addiction. It’s also a good idea to make new friends outside of the gambling world. You can also consider joining a support group or volunteering for a good cause. Lastly, joining a peer support group such as Gamblers Anonymous is an excellent way to overcome a gambling addiction. These groups are made up of former addicts who help each other overcome their addictions. They also have sponsors who can offer support and guidance.