There are several warning signs of a gambling addiction. While gambling may provide a brief amusement, it soon turns into a habit. The following list will provide some guidelines on recognizing the signs of a gambling addiction. The warning signs of gambling addiction include:
Problem gambling
If you have a habit of excessive gambling, you may be suffering from problem gamblers. The effects of problem gambling can be devastating for both the gambler and his or her family. The ‘high’ from gambling can be very addictive and have an adverse effect on many aspects of a person’s life, including relationships. Problem gamblers can also experience social isolation, losing interest in work, hobbies, and personal relationships. They may also be alienated and unable to meet their obligations. Problem gamblers may also develop a tendency to borrow money from friends and relatives and to engage in’sinking’.
The diagnosis of problem gambling has changed over the years. It is now referred to as “gambling mania.” It was first defined by Emil Kraepelin in the 1880s. In 1980, the American Psychiatric Association published diagnostic criteria for the condition based on Robert Custer’s research on compulsive gamblers. The criteria were derived from surveys of 222 compulsive gamblers and 104 substance-abusing social gamblers. These results were then used to develop nine symptom criteria for problem gambling.
Signs
A gambling addiction often mimics other forms of addiction, such as drug or alcohol addiction. In addition to staying up too late, people suffering from gambling addiction may lie and steal money. Those who lie may accuse others of manipulating them or even deceive them to win money. Signs of gambling addiction may not be immediately obvious, but should be investigated immediately. Listed below are some of the most common symptoms that can indicate that you may have a gambling problem.
Loss of control – Gambling addiction often results in a lack of control over one’s behavior. A person with a gambling addiction can no longer control their feelings, which is a key sign that something is wrong. Even if they have a clear reason for their behavior, they may be hiding the signs of their addiction or misrepresenting them to keep from being identified. The loss of control can be difficult to detect if it is only a short-term occurrence, but gambling addictions often result in serious personal and social consequences, and may even lead to death.
Symptoms
If you have a gambling problem, you’ve probably noticed some of the following common signs. While you’re addicted to gambling, you may also have symptoms of emotional dependency. These symptoms can range from depression to insomnia. Some people even experience physical effects, including chest tightness, heart palpitations, and difficulty breathing. Depending on how much you gamble, the symptoms can even become more severe as you withdraw from the behavior. To identify if you’re suffering from an emotional dependence on gambling, read on.
Depression is often associated with gambling addiction, but the two conditions are not mutually exclusive. Depression is a very common cause of gambling problems, and its symptoms can often be difficult to manage. Fortunately, dual diagnosis treatment for gambling addiction can address both issues, providing relief to both. If you’ve noticed any of these signs, it’s time to seek treatment for the problem. However, you shouldn’t panic! Here are a few things to look for.
Treatment
Gambling addiction can have detrimental effects on your relationships, finances, and emotional well-being. However, there is treatment for this condition, and many people seek counseling each year. Residential treatment centers that specialize in addictions often offer a wide range of therapies to help individuals recover from their problem. These facilities focus on treating the biological and psychological needs of each individual. For example, people who seek treatment in an inpatient program may be treated by a therapist who specializes in treating gambling addiction.
While the physical symptoms of gambling addiction are clear, the emotional ones may be more difficult to identify. The aforementioned symptoms can lead to suicidal thoughts and attempts. Depending on the severity of the problem, the individual may even engage in crime to fund their gambling. Ultimately, this is not a healthy way to live. Treatment for gambling addiction will help a person deal with both issues simultaneously. And because gambling addiction can also result in physical symptoms, you must seek help immediately.