Best ways to tackle gambling addiction

Iasmina Bunea

Casino expert

 Updated:
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In the realm of online gaming, Canada secures the 8th position, with an impressive count of over 19.3 million active gamblers. Yet among these enthusiasts, around 600,000 struggle with gambling addiction, accounting for 1-2% of the nation's populace. Addressing this issue is crucial, whether indications of addiction have crept into your habits, or a specialist has diagnosed you. There's a multitude of strategies available to aid your recovery.

Therapy and rehabilitation programs

Like any other addiction, gambling should never be underestimated. Seeking guidance from professionals is a wise and recommended step that embodies strength, not frailty. These experts are vital in assisting not just with the addiction itself, but also any subsequent issues.

Every individual has different triggers. Discussing treatment paths with a healthcare provider ensures that the approaches align with your personal needs, making them more effective.

Therapy and tailored rehabilitation programs

Rehabilitation programs: Inpatient and outpatient

Deciding on a rehab program, you're generally looking at two main options:

  1. Inpatient rehabilitation program – Compulsive gambling can be relentless, and steering clear from it is vital, even avoiding casual gambling due to relapse risks. If distancing yourself is tough, an inpatient program might be ideal. These are hosted in treatment facilities and offer stays ranging from 30 days to a full year. You'll find no gambling access, plus a strong routine with medical oversight, therapy, and programs tackling psychological and behavioral concerns. A highlight is the 24/7 support offered;
  2. Outpatient rehabilitation program – Unlike inpatient care, there's no need to stay on-site. Continue residing at home and participate in programs such as Gamblers Anonymous or similar. Many opt for this after completing inpatient treatment to maintain continuous support.

Finding the ideal treatment facility for your needs

Steps to select the right treatment center for yourself

If you're contemplating joining either an inpatient or outpatient rehab facility, scrutinize their offerings to ensure they align with your requirements. Access to consistent, supportive communication is key, be it face-to-face or over the phone. Therapists and customized programs can significantly impact your experience positively.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy and psychotherapy options

Addressing and overcoming gambling issues often necessitates sessions with a mental health expert. Consider these two therapy types:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy – Goal-oriented and personalized, it aids many gamblers in tackling addiction by uncovering its root causes. You'll identify what drives your gambling habits, understand mood dependencies on game outcomes, and formulate strategies to overcome them with your therapist;
  • Psychotherapy – This targets triggers and can be pursued individually or in groups. Addressing incorrect perceptions about gambling, it's akin to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in results.

Helping yourself combat gambling addiction

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While guidance from professionals is highly advisable for gambling problems, support from family and friends is invaluable too. However, your personal resolve plays the most crucial role in overcoming challenges. You needn't tackle this alone but there's always potential to work on personal growth alongside therapy and peer support.

Lifestyle changes

Lifestyle-changes

Reconsidering lifestyle elements that nudged you towards persistent gambling might be beneficial. Over time, identify parts of your life you'd like to refine; consider starting with:

  • Transferring financial dealings to a trusted family member or friend since finances are predominantly impacted;
  • Steering clear of gambling venues or anything triggering the urge to gamble;
  • Keeping a distance from gambling peers, whether family or friends, until you have control over your habits;
  • Spending quality time with loved ones, pursuing former hobbies, or exploring new interests to draw focus away from gambling;
  • Closing all online gambling accounts and blocking such websites from your devices. Less screen time might help too.

Dealing with the need to gamble

In recovery, the toughest hurdle might be deliberately abstaining from gambling urges. When temptation strikes, consider the following strategies:

  1. Delay gambling for minutes incrementally, then push it to another day, allowing the craving to dissipate;
  2. Seek company; connect with family and friends or visit a Gamblers Anonymous meeting;
  3. Distract yourself with activities like playing sports, watching a film, or diving into a good book;
  4. Imagine financial losses from gambling, pondering the subsequent emotions.

These might not always suffice, so reach out to your therapist or support group whenever necessary.

Choosing healthier alternatives over gambling

What makes you gamble What to replace it with

Boredom and loneliness

Rekindle old interests, discover fresh pursuits, and bond with like-minded individuals.

To sidestep problems or unwanted emotions

Regulate emotions through therapy or open dialogues with family and friends

To seek monetary gains and resolve fiscal issues

Seek a credit counselor

Thrill-seekers craving adrenaline

Engage in exciting sports like rock climbing or mountain biking

Overcoming social shyness or isolation

Opt for counseling, volunteer work, or try a public speaking course

To unwind after hectic, taxing days

Activities like exercise, massage, and meditation can alleviate stress

Sometimes gambling serves to fill an emotional void. For some, it feels like a solution to various needs, yet healthier alternatives exist. Options may vary per individual; if these aren't suitable, explore alternatives with your therapist and loved ones.

Advice for family and friends – helping others quit gambling

Guidance for companions and family on halting gambling habits

Gambling addiction isn't exclusive to you; family and relatives might face similar challenges.

Here's how family and friends can assist an individual battling gambling addiction:

  • Don't shoulder the blame – You're not at fault for someone's gambling habits nor could you anticipate its onset. Recognize the limits of your contribution, as neglecting personal needs is counter-productive;
  • Seek external backing – Tackling addiction assistance solo is taxing. Collectively, facing this trial eases emotional burdens;
  • Handle the gambler's financials – Manage their monetary affairs prudently without overreaching;
  • Define your stance on financial pleas – Relapses often occur before complete recovery. Tactics might range from beseeching funds to attempting manipulation.

Avoid actions that might exacerbate matters, like losing patience. Ultimatums and lectures seldom aid, and remember to highlight their positive traits. Isolation isn't the answer.

Medications: Both prescribed and over-the-counter

Pharmacological assistance: Over-the-counter and prescription medication

Medication forms an integral part of combating gambling addiction but should only be under professional oversight—even with OTC drugs. Compulsive gambling might stem from deeper issues, addressed via combined medication and therapy. Avoid self-medication due to the risk of alternate dependencies, adhering strictly to prescribed dosages.

University of Minnesota research highlights the efficacy of medications like naltrexone, typically used for substance abuse, in aiding compulsive gamblers. Mood stabilizers and antidepressants also help tackle comorbid conditions like OCD, ADHD, and depression often accompanying gambling addiction.

Conclusions and references

Conquering and recovering from gambling addiction requires a multifaceted approach. It's crucial to make informed lifestyle choices, seek therapy, and consider medication if necessary. Asking for support from professionals, along with family or friends, is essential and not something to be ashamed of. This support can ensure a quicker return to a balanced life compared to facing the challenges alone. The field has advanced significantly, making it easier for those struggling with gambling compulsions to find programs specifically designed to help them quit.

References