Gambling Addiction
Updated: 2023-06-13Gambling addiction, also referred to as compulsive gambling or gambling disorder, is a grave mental health ailment that afflicts individuals who are powerless to resist the compulsive urge to gamble, irrespective of the harmful consequences it inflicts on their life.
This addiction can take many forms, including
- Casino gambling
- Sports betting
- Lottery, and
- Online gambling.
I will explore the nature of gambling addiction, its symptoms, causes, treatment options, and support resources available.
What Is Gambling Addiction?
Gambling addiction is a psychological disorder characterised by an uncontrollable urge to gamble, despite the negative consequences of the behaviour.
Individuals with a gambling addiction may spend excessive time and money on gambling activities, neglecting important responsibilities such as work, family, and personal relationships.
They may also experience negative emotions, such as
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Guilt
and physical symptoms, such as
- Insomnia
- Headaches, and
- Digestive problems.
What Are The Symptoms Of Gambling Addiction?
Gambling addiction can manifest in various ways, but some common symptoms include:
- Spending increasing amounts of time and money on gambling.
- Feeling irritable, anxious, or restless when trying to cut down or stop gambling.
- Preoccupation with gambling, such as constantly thinking about past or future gambling experiences.
- Lying to friends and family members about the extent of gambling behaviour.
- Neglecting important responsibilities to gamble.
- Chasing losses by continuing to gamble to recoup previous losses.
- Using gambling as a way to cope with negative emotions or stress.
There are some other classes of symptoms. I’ll group them into a table for your convenience so that you’ll easily understand if someone you know is addicted:
| Symptom class | Description |
|---|---|
| Preoccupation with gambling | A person with a gambling addiction may spend a significant amount of time thinking about gambling, planning their next gambling session, or reliving past gambling experiences |
| Inability to control or stop gambling | A person with a gambling addiction may try to cut back or stop gambling altogether but find themselves unable to do so |
| Increased frequency or amount of gambling | A person with a gambling addiction may find themselves gambling more often or increasing the amount of money they gamble to achieve the same level of excitement |
| Lying or hiding gambling behaviour | A person with a gambling addiction may lie to family, friends, or loved ones about the extent of their gambling behaviour |
| Chasing losses | A person with a gambling addiction may continue to gamble in an attempt to recoup past losses, even if it means risking more money |
| Neglecting responsibilities | A person with a gambling addiction may neglect responsibilities at work, home, or school in favour of gambling |
| Using gambling as a way to cope | A person with a gambling addiction may use gambling as a way to escape stress, anxiety, or other negative emotions |
What Causes Gambling Addiction?
The causes of gambling addiction are complex and multifaceted. Still, some factors that may contribute to the development of this condition include:
| Factors | Description |
|---|---|
| Genetics | Studies have shown that individuals with a family history of gambling addiction may be more susceptible to developing the disorder themselves |
| Psychological factors | Individuals with certain psychological conditions, such as depression, anxiety, or obsessive-compulsive disorder, may be more vulnerable to developing a gambling addiction |
| Substance abuse | Individuals with a history of substance abuse may be more likely to develop a gambling addiction |
How Is Gambling Addiction Treated?
Treatment for gambling addiction typically involves a combination of therapy, medication, and support groups.
Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) is commonly used to treat gambling addiction. This therapy helps individuals identify and change negative thoughts and behaviours contributing to their addiction.
Medication may sometimes be used to treat underlying mental health conditions contributing to gambling addiction. Support groups such as Gamblers Anonymous can also provide valuable support and accountability for individuals in recovery.
What Support Resources Are Available?
There are many resources available to individuals who are struggling with gambling addiction. Some common resources include
- Gamblers Anonymous: A support group that provides a safe and confidential space for individuals to share their experiences with gambling addiction and receive support from others in recovery.
- National Council on Problem Gambling: An organisation that provides education, resources, and advocacy for individuals and families affected by gambling addiction.
- Treatment centres: Many treatment centres specialise in treating gambling addiction. These centres may offer various services, including therapy, medication management, and support groups.
I’ll disclose some contacts and descriptions, so you’ll be able to share these data with the persons who — you think — may have some kind of addiction.
| Resource Name | Address | Contact Info | Description | Additional Offer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Centre for Addiction | 100 Stokes St. Toronto, ON, M6J 1H4 | 416-535-8501 ext. 77056 |
|
Offers online resources, self-help tools, and a helpline. |
| Responsible Gambling | 411 Richmond Street East, Suite 205, Toronto, ON | 416-499-9800 |
|
Offers a helpline, a self-exclusion program, and education and training for professionals. |
| Gambling Support | 1 St Clair Avenue West, Suite 301, Toronto, ON | 1-888-347-8888 |
|
Also offers education and training for professionals. |
| Problem Gambling | 140 Merton Street, Suite 200, Toronto, ON | 1-888-230-3505 |
|
Offers a helpline, online chat, and information on self-exclusion and financial counselling. |
| Alberta Health | Various locations throughout Alberta | 1-866-332-2322 |
|
Possesses a helpline, online chat, and information on self-exclusion and financial counselling. |
| Manitoba Addictions | 300 Carlton Street, Winnipeg, MB | 204-945-2000 |
|
Offers a helpline, online chat, and information on self-exclusion and financial counselling. Also has education and training for professionals. |
| Saskatchewan Health | Various locations throughout Saskatchewan | 1-800-306-6789 |
|
Proposes a helpline, online chat, and information on self-exclusion and financial counselling. |
| Quebec Health | Various locations throughout Quebec | 1-866-767-5389 |
|
Offers a helpline, online chat, and information on self-exclusion and financial counselling. |
It's worth noting that the table presented above is not an exhaustive list, and other problem gambling support resources may be accessible in various regions of Canada.
Moreover, certain provinces may have their own tailored programs and initiatives to tackle gambling addiction.
If you or someone you know is grappling with gambling problems, seeking assistance from any of these resources can be a pivotal stride towards recovery. Remember that gambling addiction is curable, and help is always available.
What Is The Outlook For Gambling Addiction?
Recovery from gambling addiction is possible, but it is a long-term process that requires commitment and effort. With the right treatment and support, individuals with a gambling addiction can learn to manage their impulses and make positive life changes.
It is meaningful to seek help as soon as possible if you or a loved one is struggling with gambling addiction, as delaying treatment can lead to more severe consequences and make it harder to recover.
In addition to seeking professional help, there are also steps that individuals can take on their own to manage their gambling addiction. These may include avoiding triggers, such as places or activities that trigger the urge to gamble, setting financial limits, and finding healthier ways to cope with stress and negative emotions.
Conclusion
Gambling addiction is an acute mental health condition that can wreak havoc on individuals and their families.
Although the roots of gambling addiction are intricate and diverse, with the proper treatment and support, full recovery is within reach. It's crucial to take action and seek help promptly.
Thankfully, there are myriad resources available to those grappling with gambling addiction. With dedication and perseverance, individuals with a gambling addiction can acquire the skills to manage their impulses and make affirmative changes in their lives.