Gambling Addiction

Gambling Addiction

Gambling addiction is a type of impulse-control disorder and this means that addicts cannot control their urge to gamble, even when they know their gambling is causing problems, the urge is so strong the gambling continues no matter what the consequences may be. The addict may be gambling at a casino, betting on racing or sports or they could be addicted to stocks and shares, but whichever way, the penalty for this addiction may have the same outcome.

Gambling addiction is no less perilous than any other addiction, it has the control to cost an addict far more than just money, it can also cost self respect and it may have devastating effects on a gamblers loved ones. It can cause interruption in any key area of life: psychological, physical, social or professional as well as leading to possible financial disaster.

It can take incredible courage to admit to a gambling addiction, however many people have been able to break the habit. Overcoming a gambling addiction or problem is never easy. The Clifton Clinic offer Cognitive-behavioural therapy for problem gambling, this will focus on changing unhealthy gambling behaviours and thoughts. It also teaches problem gamblers how to fight gambling urges, deal with uncomfortable emotions rather than escaping the derogatory issues through gambling. The team at the Clifton Clinic offer counselling to anyone with this addiction, which may be in a one to one session or in group therapy.

There are also many support circles for this addiction, one of the most common groups is Gamblers Anonymous, which is a twelve-step recovery program patterned after Alcoholics Anonymous. This group provides a supportive, non-judgmental atmosphere where addicts can share their thoughts and issues, and get feedback and advice from fellow gamblers who understand their problem.