Gambling

Understanding Gambling Addiction 

Gambling addiction, commonly known as compulsive gambling or gambling disorder, is the experience of feeling a powerful urge to gamble relentlessly. This urge can become so pervasive that it seriously disrupts one’s financial stability, relationships and legal status.

As with other addictive disorders, compulsive gambling is classified as a behavioral addiction. It produces a physical, mental and spiritual toll on the individual, similar to substance use disorders.

The tell-tale signs of an addiction 

• Are you prone to gambling more money than you intended or wanted to? 

• Do you struggle to control or stop your gambling activities? 

• Are you still gambling despite financial problems, relationship breakdowns, or legal issues? 

• Is quitting gambling making you restless and irritable?

Causes of gambling addiction are complex and multifaceted, often involving genetic liabilities, environmental risk factors and psychological predispositions. Stressful life events, prior traumas and co-existing psychiatric conditions such as anxiety disorder or depression can exacerbate the risk of gambling disorder.

The treatment of gambling addiction is individualized to meet each person’s clinical needs based on a biopsychosocial-spiritual model. The therapist utilizes a range of therapeutic modalities to help modify addictive behaviors and address underlying conditions, such as:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

• Motivational Interviewing

• Contingency management

Mental health medication: In some cases, medications can be prescribed to alleviate the symptoms of co-existing disorders such as depression or anxiety, allowing for a more focused treatment.

Support Networks: Support groups such as Gamblers Anonymous/Narcotics/Alcoholics Anonymous are essential emotional and social support networks, enabling individuals to share their struggles and successfully overcome their addictions.

Get started on the road to recovery 

Gambling addiction is a serious condition that worsens over time but with the right support, recovery is possible.

At Global Therapy Inc., our experienced and caring team of therapists are committed to helping you understand your addiction and develop sustainable strategies to manage and overcome it. Book your appointment today and begin your recovery. We have mental health therapists ready to assist you now.

Book an appointment and start on your journey to better mental health.