Many people have gambled at one time or another, with most doing so without problems. However, a small percentage develop pathological gambling (PG), which has been recognised as an addiction, like substance abuse and compulsive eating. Pathological gambling often begins in adolescence or young adulthood, and is more common in men than in women. PG may be caused by mood disorders such as depression or stress, or by family, work, or financial difficulties.
There are a number of ways to help someone who is struggling with gambling addiction, including cognitive-behaviour therapy. This teaches people to resist unwanted thoughts and habits. For example, a person with a gambling problem may be taught to confront irrational beliefs that are based on false assumptions about the chances of winning or losing. For instance, a person might believe that a series of losses decreases their chance of winning because they have seen other people have had a string of bad luck or because they can recall their own past lucky streak. However, this belief is not logical, as the chances of winning or losing are independent of each spin of the coin or roll of the dice.
Psychotherapy can also be useful, especially if it addresses underlying issues such as mood disorders or family conflict. Psychodynamic therapy explores unconscious processes that influence a person’s behavior and helps them become more self-aware and understanding of how their past influences their present behaviors. Group psychotherapy is also available, and it can provide an opportunity for a person with a gambling disorder to interact with others who have similar experiences.
In addition to a change in thinking, it is important for a person with gambling problems to have strong support networks. This could include friends and family, a church group, or a peer support group such as Gamblers Anonymous. It is also advisable to make sure that gambling does not interfere with other activities and that a person does not spend more money than they can afford to lose.
It is also helpful to avoid chasing lost money, as this usually makes the problem worse. Instead, a person should try to focus on other forms of enjoyment and find new hobbies. It is also important to find other ways to relax and reduce stress, such as exercise or meditation.
Finally, a person with a gambling problem should try to limit their spending by allocating a set amount of disposable income to be used for gambling and leaving once they reach that limit. They should also refrain from using credit and avoid borrowing to fund their gambling activities. If they still feel the urge to gamble, they should postpone their gambling and take a walk or engage in some other physical activity. They can also seek out help by calling a gambling hotline or attending a meeting for gamblers. There are also family support groups for gambling addiction such as Gam-Anon. These can provide invaluable guidance and support for a family dealing with this issue.