Problem gambling is a common problem that can affect people of all ages. It can be addictive, but it can be cured with cognitive-behavioural therapy. Gambling counsellors are available 24/7 and offer free, confidential consultations. A gambling problem can impact someone’s life negatively, so it’s important to seek help to cure it. Read on for more information. Listed below are some tips to overcome the urge to gamble. You can also find help for problem gambling in your area by using online resources.
Problem gambling is an addictive disorder
Gambling addiction is a serious condition that has negative social, physical, and psychological consequences. It is a type of impulse-control disorder and is classified as an impulse control disorder. Aside from its negative psychological consequences, problem gambling can affect a person’s physical health as well. Gamblers can suffer from migraine, intestinal disorders, and depression as a result of their habit. Gamblers who have an addiction to gambling may even engage in crimes and lie to hide their problem or to win money.
It can be treated with cognitive-behavioural therapy
Several methods of cognitive-behavioural therapy are available for treating gambling. A brief intervention is one option and does not require protracted clinical involvement. In such a treatment, patients are provided with a short telephone call or workbook accompanied by structured support from their treatment provider. Short-term treatment for gambling is associated with clinically significant change in gambling behaviours after six to nine months. Other interventions, such as family therapy, may also be useful.
It can be linked to alcohol or drugs
Many people wonder if gambling can be linked to alcohol or drugs. Addiction is a serious problem in the United States. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, about four to six million Americans are problem gamblers. Two million of them meet the criteria for compulsive or pathological gambling. Alcohol and gambling are legal in all 48 states, including Washington, D.C., so a connection between alcohol and gambling is likely.
It can be a harmless social activity for participants of all ages
The social benefits of gambling are clear to both the participants and the observers. Regular participation is associated with a decrease in IQ and a higher external locus of control for males and females. Moreover, gambling has been linked with a reduction in harmful alcohol consumption, weekly smoking, teenage video game playing, and social media use among participants aged 20 to 24 years. However, this does not mean that gambling is completely harmless.
It can destroy lives
A recent report from the House of Lords Gambling Industry Committee found that one in three people in the UK are problem gamblers. This figure includes 55,000 children. In response, the British Medical Journal published an open letter calling for a statutory levy on betting companies. Polling conducted by the paper showed that people with gambling problems have a higher risk of developing alcohol, drug, and mental health problems. The Journal also cited data that showed the social effects of problem gambling on friends.
