Gambling disorder is now classified as a mental illness in the DSM-5, the fifth edition of Gabbard’s Treatment of Psychiatric Disorders, edited by Glen O. Gabbard, M.D., published by American Psychiatric Publishing. This classification places gambling in the category of behavioral addictions and shares similarity with substance-related disorders, including comorbidity, physiology, and treatment.
Problem gamblers
Cognitive-behavioural treatment for problem gambling has many components. The following sections describe the components and their relationship with problem gambling. This is not a comprehensive list. It is important to note that all studies on problem gambling are speculative until more information is available. However, the cognitive-behavioural approach to problem gambling appears to be effective for some individuals. This is because it addresses a range of issues related to the brain, such as cognitive-affective disorder and alcoholism.
Symptoms of problem gambling include a sense of anxiety, betting more money than you can afford to lose, and gambling larger amounts to experience the same euphoria. Statistics show that the number of hospital admissions due to problem gambling has doubled in the last six years, and the rate of gambling-related psychosis is increasing. There are plans for an additional fourteen problem gambling clinics in the next six years. However, help is crucial for these individuals.
Signs of a problem gambler
Problem gambling can be dangerous to a person’s health, finances, and relationships. They may be spending money they do not have, or even stealing from others. The amount of time spent gambling also increases, and they will often lie to their loved ones about their spending. Problem gamblers may become secretive with their money and spend more time on gambling than they do on other activities, such as paying bills or spending time with friends. Despite these warning signs, it can be difficult to get these individuals to stop gambling.
A problem gambler often lies to themselves. Psychologist call this psychological process cognitive dissonance. It occurs when an individual’s behavior conflicts with his or her beliefs and values. The inconsistent behavior creates psychological discomfort, and the person may want to hide it. When a person lies to himself or others, the person may feel that they should have caught the problem sooner. The person may even go to great lengths to conceal the problem, making it more difficult to determine whether it is an addiction or not.
Resources for help with a problem gambler
Dealing with a problem gambler can be difficult and sometimes even shameful, but there are many resources for help. Getting in touch with a professional can help you recognize whether your loved one is a problem gambler. Creating financial boundaries for your problem gambler is another way to keep him or her accountable for his or her actions and prevent him or her from relapsing. Your first responsibility in managing the family’s finances is to ensure your own safety, so it’s important to set boundaries and set limits.
Gambling is not the only problem in the world. It affects thousands of people, including adolescents and older adults. Men with a history of substance abuse may be more susceptible to developing a gambling problem than others. However, problem gambling can affect men and women of any age. It is also more likely to affect teenagers and those with a family history of depression and anxiety disorders. You can also talk to a therapist about how to help your loved one deal with his problem gambling.