Signs of a gambling problem and advice for overcoming
When is gambling a problem?
Any behavior that interferes with someone’s life can be a problem. Gambling is no different, generally the more preoccupied players become with gambling the likelihood goes up that it will become a problem behavior.
Gambling often reveals itself as a problem when player’s start to feel a need to be secret about their gambling and become defensive in their position about playing.
Another sign of compulsion can be in not being able to stop once gamblers start and in playing even when players don’t have the money or resources to do so.
It is at this time that gambling addicts can go so far as to borrow, sell or even steal to get money for gambling.
Finally, the feedback players get from family and friends tells a great deal as well. Are people who care about the gambler worried about him or her? If so, it is highly probable that the gambler does have a problem.
Ways to correct addictive gambling behavior
Players can recover from addictive gambling by admitting when it’s a problem. Once this happens there are groups and treatments available to help gambling behavior that has turned into a problem.
There are 12-step programs like ‘Gamblers Anonymous,’ a group that is formatted much the same way as Alcoholics Anonymous. It involves surrendering to a ‘higher power’ of choice, choosing a sponsor and going to groups for support.
In the realms of personal therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy has proven to be successful for many gamblers as well. It is a way to transform thinking and behavior by ‘rewiring’ the brain by creating healthier patterns for living.
This will require will power, persistence and avoiding temptations and building new habits. Perhaps this means limiting easy access to finances, cutting up credit cards or entrusting money with either a spouse or another family member.
It will also mean restructuring time, finding better ways to spend time and to relax. Visualize not only a better life but how life may go if the problem is not corrected.
These are a few of the ways addictive gamblerscan begin to take back control in their lives when gambling has become a problem. With time, effort and a good support system, players can learn how to do this.
