If you are suspicious that your spouse has a gambling problem, don’t ignore it. Acknowledge the situation and take steps to get help. Gambling addiction is a serious issue and, if untreated, can have devastating consequences. Promises Behavioral Health offers treatment for gambling addiction at our gambling rehab centers. Call 844.875.5609 to learn how we can help today.
What Is Problematic Gambling?
Problematic gambling, sometimes referred to as compulsive or pathological gambling, is defined as an inability to control the urge to gamble, even when it causes significant harm to a person’s physical, mental, and financial well-being. People with problematic gambling typically suffer from severe levels of psychological distress, including insomnia, depression, and substance abuse. They often become socially isolated and lose their jobs and relationships due to the extreme financial burden of their gambling habits. Problematic gambling can also lead to crime, violence, and suicide.
Treatment for problematic gambling is available, but unfortunately, many people do not seek help due to stigma or lack of awareness. Individuals with a gambling addiction must reach out for help as soon as possible to regain control of their lives.
By understanding the signs and symptoms of problem gambling, those around an individual with a gambling addiction can better recognize it in order to help them seek treatment.
Signs of Gambling Addiction
Gambling addiction can take a toll on an individual’s life and the lives of those close to them. It is important to recognize the signs of gambling addiction so that you can get help if needed. Some signs of gambling addiction include:
- Spending more time or money than intended on gambling activities
- Feeling an urge to gamble, even when you don’t have the money or time
- Feeling preoccupied with gambling, thinking about it constantly, and feeling restless or irritable when not able to gamble
- Lying to cover up the amount of time and/or money spent on gambling
- Taking risks and making reckless decisions while gambling
- Neglecting work, family, or other responsibilities in order to gamble
- Borrowing money or selling possessions to support gambling habits
- Feeling guilty, depressed, or even suicidal due to gambling losses
If you can recognize any of these signs of gambling addiction in your spouse, it is important to seek help as soon as possible. Professional treatment and therapy can help individuals gain control of their addiction and begin to rebuild their lives. With the right support, they can start on the path to recovery.
It is also important to remember that you are not alone in this struggle. Many resources are available, such as hotlines, online forums, and support groups that can provide additional guidance and support. No matter how difficult it may seem, recovery is possible with the right help and guidance. There is hope, and you can get back on track.
Getting Professional Help for Gambling Addiction
Gambling addiction is a serious problem, and if you are struggling with it, professional help can be beneficial. Professional counselors may be able to provide guidance on how to develop healthy coping skills, manage triggers, and other aspects of managing your gambling habit. They can also offer advice on budgeting and financial management, which is essential for those who are dealing with gambling addiction. Additionally, they can provide support, encouragement, and a safe place to discuss your struggles.
There are a variety of options when it comes to seeking professional help for gambling addiction. You may be able to find therapists or counselors who specialize in the treatment of problem gambling in your area, either through referrals from friends and family or online directories. Additionally, certain organizations offer specialized support programs and assistance for those with gambling problems such as Gamblers Anonymous or the National Council on Problem Gambling.
When seeking professional help for gambling addiction, it is important to find a counselor or therapist who you feel comfortable with. It is recommended that individuals research different counselors in order to find one who meets their needs. If you are uncomfortable with the first counselor or therapist you meet, don’t be afraid to look for another. It is also important to find a professional who understands and respects your cultural background and identity, as this can help ensure that the treatment is tailored to fit your needs best.
Learn More About Treatment for Gambling Addiction at Promises Behavioral Health
If you or a loved one is struggling with gambling addiction, it’s important to get help. Gambling can be an obsessive and destructive behavior that can have serious consequences. At Promises Behavioral Health, we are dedicated to helping people with gambling addiction take back control of their lives and find recovery. Call 844.875.5609 or fill out our online contact form today.