The consequences of excessive gambling are far-reaching, both financial and emotional. Gambling becomes a problem when the person is unable to stop or limit their gambling, affecting their life in every aspect. To help the person overcome this problem, they can seek therapy for gambling addiction. This therapy may involve behavioural changes to decrease the urge to gamble, or cognitive behavioural therapy, which involves changing the way a person thinks about gambling. A therapist may recommend a specific type of therapy for each person.

Problem gambling is a form of pathological gambling

A person suffering from pathological or problem gambling tends to engage in a specific form of gambling. While these forms may not necessarily be problematic, they often provide funding for the primary form. It is important to note that patients may engage in more than one form of gambling, and it is important to identify the symptoms of pathological gambling before it becomes a problem. Pathological gambling is also often referred to as a hidden addiction because there are few outward symptoms.

It is a form of substance abuse

The similarities between gambling and substance abuse are many. Both disorders involve a compulsive need to use a certain substance despite the consequences. Neither addiction can be stopped on its own, and if it is not treated, it can become dangerous. Treatment can help people overcome their gambling or substance abuse addiction. The first step is to recognize the symptoms. If you think that you might be suffering from a gambling addiction, seek help from a qualified addiction counselor.

It is a form of telescoping

One study has shown that people with gambling problems are more likely to be women than men. This could be because of the way women use gambling to regulate their negative emotions. There are also different time frames between men and women when it comes to the evolution of their gambling disorders. Men start gambling at an earlier age and women at a later age. As a result, women typically experience problem gambling sooner than men. This phenomenon is referred to as the telescoping effect.

Treatment

If you are suffering from an addiction to gambling, you may have a variety of options for treatment. Many methods include individual or group therapy, 12-step support groups, and community reinforcement. These therapies are intended to help you identify your triggers and learn healthier ways to cope with them. Because stress can contribute to gambling addiction, it is important to find healthy ways to deal with it. Depending on the severity of the addiction, treatment may be residential or outpatient.