Gambling is a way for people to pass the time and to relax, escaping worries, boredom, or trouble. But thoughts of gambling can disturb sleep, causing problems. Bill collectors, arguments, disappointments, and frustrations can drive someone to seek escape through gambling. It may even lead to feelings of self-destruction. If the gambler finds it hard to stop, family members may hide food money. It’s important to be aware of the risks and to avoid them as much as possible.
The spectrum of gambling-related behaviors is vast and includes abstinence, problem gambling, substance abuse, and pathological gambling. Studies have found similarities and differences among the disorders and the natural histories of problem gambling. A large proportion of people with problematic behaviors believe that they don’t have a problem with gambling and will eventually stop, although it takes a long time. Some of these individuals may have problems with alcohol and other substances, but they will likely gradually decrease their destructive behavior without professional help.
Research on gambling disorders has found high rates of suicidal behavior in pathological gamblers. Suicide rates are estimated at up to 24%. However, very few structured studies have examined the association between gambling and suicide. Attempts at suicide are associated with gambling in cities that have casinos. The data, however, are limited and difficult to interpret, since it is only available for Atlantic City and not other cities. Despite the prevalence, these findings may not be a conclusive indicator of suicide risk.
Research on gambling addiction indicates that problem gamblers often have other problems, including depression and anxiety. Many of these problems can be caused by a personality disorder. These disorders can even be worsened by compulsive gambling. When these two conditions go hand in hand, the gambling addiction can cause problems in the social, professional, and psychological aspects of life. For those who have an addiction to gambling, it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible.
To recover from gambling addiction, it is important to strengthen your social network and make a decision to stop. Admitting that you have an addiction to gambling is the first step to recovery. But this decision is not easy. It could lead to losses and strained relationships. But there are many people who have successfully overcome this problem. Do not feel alone, as many have overcome the addiction. And there are many ways to recover from the addiction to gambling.
Symptoms of a gambling addiction include the following: irregular work schedule, excessive borrowing, and a change in personality. Family members of people suffering from gambling addiction may also notice a change in the behavior of the person, such as borrowers or lenders. Family members may also notice that a person is spending a lot of time away from home. Warning signs are different in adolescents and adults. You might notice a person borrowing money to finance their gambling.