Gambling

Gambling Addiction

Over the past 15 years, there may not be an addiction that has risen to the forefront of society more than gambling. With the constant televised poker games and the easy access to games both online and close to home, individuals who have a tendency to become addicted were and are at the mercy of their surroundings. Primarily, gambling was associated with Las Vegas, now however, gambling can take place in the privacy of a bedroom, office or just about anywhere.

Society has much blame to take for the rise of this addiction, as we constantly worship poker champions on TV. What often times start as a fun way to spend time with friends can often turns into an expensive and dangerous addiction.

What is Gambling Addiction?

Gambling addiction, often referred to as compulsive gambling, is a form of impulse-control disorder. Individuals addicted to gambling have impulses to gamble that they cannot control. This is the case even when they are aware of the damage that their compulsive gambling is causing. An addict is constantly thinking about gambling, and the idea takes over their mind and life. These individuals continue to gamble, whether they are winning or losing. The amount of gambling done is not an affect of happiness or sadness, or any type of mood for that matter. Rather, people who are addicted to gambling will gamble..... no matter what.

Who does gambling addiction affect?

Gambling problems, like other forms of addiction can affect anyone. No race, creed, gender or age group is more prone to this type of addiction (barring young children).

What is Gambling?
While many people associate gambling with games played in Las Vegas it is much more than that. Obsessive partaking in the following may constitute a gambling problem.

Sports Betting
Buying lottery tickets
Buying "scratchers"
Poker playing (casino or online)
Blackjack
Roulette
Slots

Gambling addictions can cause many problems both for the individual and their loved ones. Relationships are strained, work is put aside, homes are neglected and finances are wiped out. For many, the problem can get so bad that they partake in activities they never thought they would such as stealing. Due to the stress and problem that are created, in worst case scenarios, addicts take their own lives.

Why people may start gambling:

To get a "rush"
To be more social and overcome shyness
Provide excitement
To ignore other more important feelings
Loneliness
Boredom
To try and get rich or solve their financial woes
To relax.

Do I have a gambling problem?
Before you assume that you are just having fun or perhaps have a serious problem look at the following list to determine whether or not you are addicted.

Do you feel like you have to be secretive about your gambling?
Do you gamble late at night or in secret?
Are you having trouble controlling your gambling?
Can you walk away? Or do you continue regardless of your financial situation?
Do you gamble even when your finances don't support it?
Have your family or friends said anything to you about your gambling?

If you answered yes to any or all of these questions you may have a gambling problem. When finances are no longer a concern to you and gambling has taken over your life, it may signal the start of an addiction or may signify that you are already addicted. If your family and friends have said something to you, then that may only further the likelihood of your problem being real. Do not hesitate, get treatment, with the proper treatment you can control your gambling and restore your life.

You may believe that you can't stop, but gambling addiction is treatable. Through one on one treatment with a therapist you can uncover the root of your gambling problems and start on your way to recovery. If you or a loved one is suffering, call 1(855)201-0121 and speak with one of our staff members about gambling addiction treatment options. At Prominence we understand that gambling is a complex issue and we will treat you or your loved one with the care and compassion they deserve.