Problem gambling can have both physical and psychological consequences, making it imperative to seek treatment. It is also an impulse control disorder that affects a person’s life on many levels. Gambling addiction affects a person’s physical and psychological well-being, with physical symptoms ranging from abdominal disorders to migraine. Other symptoms of gambling addiction include depression, despondency, and even attempts at suicide. Luckily, treatment for problem gambling is available. Continue reading to learn more about gambling addiction and treatment options.
While most Protestant denominations oppose gambling, it’s generally permissible in some settings. The Christian Reformed Church of North America, the Church of Lutheran Confession, the Seventh-day Adventist Church, the Assemblies of God, and the Southern Baptist Convention all strongly oppose gambling. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and Jehovah’s Witnesses have also opposed gambling, and the Most Holy Book specifically prohibits it. Despite the widespread opposition to gambling, some games are offered in a casino environment.
The prevalence of problem gambling is correlated with the number of types of gambling and the size of the jackpot. Research suggests that excessive gambling may be linked to social groups, particularly those with high risk-gambling activities. Risk assessment tools can help identify which forms of gambling are risky and modify them. A longitudinal population study in Sweden found that participation in high-risk gambling was positively related to the incidence of problem gambling. This is a significant finding and warrants further study.
Besides educating yourself about gambling and its dangers, you can also seek help if a loved one has a problem. A family member can offer support and encouragement. If the problem gambling involves a child, a parent or a significant other, he or she should try to talk to the affected person. Even if a parent or adult child is reluctant to confront the problem gambler, he or she should make an effort to get help from other family members and friends. The sooner you begin working on this problem, the sooner you can make changes.
Gambling is a form of entertainment that involves risking money or belongings to win a prize. In many cases, the prize is valuable, and people risk their money to win it. Some forms of gambling involve lottery tickets, which may cost hundreds of dollars. Ultimately, however, the outcome of the game may be a result of chance or the bettor’s own miscalculation. The risks and rewards associated with gambling are considerable, making it difficult to identify a gambling problem in a person.
The best way to treat a gambling addiction is to build a strong support network of friends and family. It may help to make new friends outside of gambling, volunteer for a good cause, or join a gambling peer support group. Alternatively, you can seek treatment for gambling addiction by joining a 12-step program such as Gamblers Anonymous. This 12-step recovery program patterned after Alcoholics Anonymous consists of meetings. You will need a sponsor, a former gambler who will be able to give you guidance.