Gambling addiction is a serious problem that affects millions of people around the world.
Far beyond the financial toll, this can destroy relationships, have a negative impact on mental health and trap people’s lives in a vicious cycle that is difficult to break. For those who are stuck in this cycle, it is important to know that recovery is possible.
With this in mind, the team BC.Game We have prepared this material to provide guidance to those who want to escape gambling addiction.
Understanding Addiction
poisoning bet It is considered a mental disorder classified as a behavioral addiction. This means that, like drug or alcohol addiction, obsessions can develop that are difficult to control.
The cycle of addiction typically begins with recreational gambling. However, the “hook” appears when an individual wins a significant bet, causing euphoria and reinforcing the idea that betting is a viable way to make money.
Over time, bets become more frequent and larger, leading to a cycle of losses and desperate attempts to recover lost money. This is a behavior known as “loss chasing.”
This step is very dangerous and can trap an individual in an endless cycle.
Warning signs of gambling addiction include:
- Increase in betting amount;
- Irritability or anxiety when not betting;
- Lies about betting habits
- Difficulty stopping or controlling gambling behavior.
How Betting Affects Mental Health
In addition to financial losses, gambling addiction has a significant impact on mental health. People with this disorder often feel depression, anxiety, and guilt, especially after a serious loss.
The emotional pressure of trying to repay debt and shame about one’s actions can lead to a cycle of isolation and loneliness.
The relationship between gambling addiction and other mental disorders is also surprising. People with gambling addictions are not only more likely to develop disorders such as depression and anxiety, but are also at higher risk of suicidal behavior.
Assess the severity of the problem
To begin your recovery journey, it is important to assess the severity of the problem.
Tools such as Gambling Symptom Rating Scale (G-SAS) ou o NORC Diagnostic Screen for Gambling Disorder It can help gauge the extent of addiction.
This questionnaire will give you a clear picture of the impact gambling has on your life, from financial to emotional and social impacts.
Recognizing the situation is the first step toward change.
recovery plan
Breaking the cycle of gambling addiction may seem like a huge task, but recovery is possible with a well-thought-out plan. Here are some steps to creating an effective recovery plan:
- Trigger identification
- For many people, gambling addiction is triggered by moments of stress, boredom, or loneliness. Identifying the moments and emotions that awaken the desire to gamble is important to avoid relapse.
- Set realistic goals
- Set small goals, such as gradually reducing the time you spend on betting-related activities or avoiding visiting betting sites for a period of time. Specific, achievable goals keep you motivated.
- Find Healthy Alternatives
- Turn the time you spend gambling into a hobby that contributes to your well-being. Activities such as physical exercise, meditation, reading, or being outdoors can help shift your focus.
- Limit access to money and time.
- One of the most effective ways to prevent a relapse is to limit access to financial resources. For example, have a fixed amount per week and don’t use credit or debit cards.
- Use self-exclusion
- Many countries have self-exclusion programs that allow individuals to voluntarily ban themselves from using casinos or online gambling platforms. This tool is especially effective when combined with therapeutic support.
Seeking professional help
For many people, professional help is a turning point in their recovery process. A therapist who specializes in addiction can provide psychological support and help you build skills to resist the urge to gamble.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a general approach that teaches individuals to recognize their negative thoughts and replace them with healthier alternatives.
Additionally, support groups like Gamblers Anonymous (JA) provide a safe environment to share experiences, find emotional support, and learn from the experiences of others in similar situations.
Create a support network
Social support is a fundamental part of addiction recovery. Enlisting the help of friends, family, or a support group can make a big difference.
To build this support network, it’s important to disclose your problems and express your willingness to change.
Many friends and family may not immediately understand the seriousness of gambling addiction, but it is important to have open conversations and educate those around you about the challenges and challenges that come with this journey.
If you feel that someone around you is negatively influencing your betting behavior, you may need to set clear boundaries or distance yourself from these people.
Dealing with Relapse
It is important to understand that relapse is part of the recovery process. Approximately 90% of individuals who recover from gambling addiction experience a relapse.
Rather than viewing this as a personal failure, use it as an opportunity to adjust your recovery plan and strengthen your strategies.
Warning signs of recurrence include:
Recognizing these signs can help you take action quickly by strengthening your support system or revisiting your treatment.
Ultimately, overcoming a gambling addiction is a long and difficult process, but recovery is possible.
Understanding the causes and consequences of addiction, seeking professional help and social support, and creating a solid recovery plan can help you regain control of your life.
It is never too late to start this journey. The first step is to recognize the problem and make an effort to live a healthier life.