Q: What is Gambling Addiction?
A. Gambling addiction, also known as gambling disorder, is characterized by an uncontrollable urge to continue gambling despite the negative impact it has on one's life. It involves the repeated problematic gambling behavior that causes distress and significant impairment in personal, family, social, educational, occupational, or other important areas of functioning. Problem gambling includes all gambling behavior patterns that compromise, disrupt or damage personal, family or vocational pursuits. The essential features are increasing preoccupation with gambling, a need to bet more money more frequently, restlessness or irritability when attempting to stop, "chasing" losses, and loss of control manifested by continuation of the gambling behavior in spite of mounting, serious, negative consequences. In extreme cases, problem gambling can result in financial ruin, legal problems, loss of career and family, or even suicide.
Q: What can be done to overcome gambling addiction?
A. To overcome gambling addiction, it is crucial to acknowledge the problem, understand the triggers, and seek professional help. Strategies include staying focused on the goal of not gambling, telling oneself that it's too risky to gamble at all, and asking family or friends for support to follow a treatment plan. Additionally, relaxation techniques, exercise, and proper nutrition can aid in sticking to one's goal of reducing or giving up gambling. For more detailed advice and support, consulting mental health experts and considering therapy options can be beneficial. The frequency of gambling does not necessarily indicate a gambling problem. A problem gambler may engage in gambling binges sporadically, yet the emotional and financial impact of such behavior will manifest in their life and affect their family.
Problem Gambling Screening Tool
These questions are provided to help the individual decide if they may be a Problem Gambling candidate:
Have you ever bragged about winning or have exaggerated wins and/or minimized losses?
Do you spend lots of time gambling, thinking about or planning to gamble?
Are you restless or irritable when not gambling?
Have you ever borrowed money to gamble?
Have you ever hidden time spent gambling or hid bills and unpaid gambling debts?
Have you ever lied about how much time or money you have spent gambling?
The following Erie County Provider can help:
If you answered "yes" to one or more of these questions, you may be a candidate for Problem Gambling. If you feel like you have a problem and would like to talk to someone, please contact us at (419) 626-9156.
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