Problem gambling is a common mental disorder. The symptoms are often linked to nongambling health conditions. The good news is that there are treatments available. Here are some tips for identifying and treating it. The first step to recovering from a gambling addiction is to seek help. If you suspect that you have a gambling problem, seek treatment from a licensed clinical professional. There are many options available, including specialized gambling treatment. To find the right treatment for you, talk to your doctor or mental health provider.
Problem gambling is a mental disorder
The symptoms of problem gambling may include overwhelming feelings of shame, betrayal, and depressed feelings. You may even feel frightened of your future. It is important to remember that change does not happen overnight, and that self-blame will not help you overcome the problem. Take action and learn more about problem gambling, its recovery guidelines, and resources in your community. You should also take steps to safeguard your financial security.
If a person develops a gambling problem, they may experience problems with their family, job, culture, and social life. Moreover, they may experience financial, legal, and legal consequences of their behavior. These consequences may occur suddenly or over years. The nature of the problem varies, ranging from social gambling to no gambling at all. In most cases, the symptoms of problem gambling do not occur immediately, but develop over time.
It is widespread
In the West, “Big Gambling” has become an enormous business, with losses from the business escalating from $250 billion USD in 2003 to $450 billion USD in 2013. Gone are the days of local, low-key culture; the globalization of commercial gambling is a product of the liberalisation of markets and the emergence of the global consumer society. Big Gambling has a huge political influence, which it uses to sabotage reforms and evade public health legislation.
In Australia, electronic gambling machines can be found everywhere, from public venues to not-for-profit community clubs. In 2011, Australians lost the most money per person than any other country, 23% more than second-placed Singapore and 60% more than the fifth-placed United States. These losses included losses from offshore gambling websites. In 2011, Australians lost over AUD20 billion on gambling, according to the government’s own figures. It is estimated that the average Australian loses AUD2 billion a year, with gambling affecting over AUD20 billion of their national income.
It is treatable
Although compulsive gambling is not a curable disease, it is treatable. In many cases, limiting exposure to gambling and reducing or eliminating the frequency of gambling activities can help. Nevertheless, the problem cannot be completely prevented, as gambling is a popular activity that’s easy to access. Even if a person is at risk, it is best to get help early so that it doesn’t get out of control. In addition to counseling, specialized treatment can be useful for people with problem gambling.
Pathological gambling is an extreme case of gambling addiction and involves emotional and physical dependence on the activity. It causes harm to the gambler as well as their loved ones. This type of gambling behavior may result in a variety of social and financial problems. The gambler may even consider suicide. However, gambling is treatable, and with the right support and education, problem gamblers can finally stop the cycle and recover from their destructive behavior.