How to Help Someone With Gambling Disorder

Gambling disorder, also known as compulsive gambling, is a serious condition that can affect anyone, regardless of age or background. It’s more than just a bad habit; it’s a recognized mental health disorder. If you know someone who may be struggling with a gambling disorder, knowing what steps to take to help them can make all the difference.

Let’s understand what gambling disorder is, how to recognize it and what steps you can take to help someone struggling with this issue.

What is Gambling Disorder?

Gambling disorder is an urge to gamble continuously despite harmful negative consequences or a desire to stop. It affects a person’s life in many ways, from their personal relationships to their financial stability.

Is Gambling a Mental Disorder?

Yes, gambling is considered a chronic mental disorder. It shares many characteristics with substance use disorders and behavioral addictions. People with gambling disorder often experience cravings and engage in the behavior despite negative consequences, similar to those with a substance addiction.

Signs of Gambling Addiction

Spotting the signs of gambling addiction is the first step in providing help. Here are some common indicators:

• Preoccupation with gambling, such as constantly planning and thinking about gambling activities.
• Needing to gamble with increasing amounts of money to achieve the desired excitement.
• Repeated unsuccessful attempts to control or stop gambling.
• Restlessness or irritability when trying to cut down on gambling.
• Gambling as a way to escape problems or relieve feelings of helplessness, guilt or anxiety.
• Lying to conceal gambling activity.
• Jeopardizing or losing significant relationships, job opportunities or education because of gambling.
• Relying on others to provide money to relieve desperate financial situations caused by gambling.

Causes of Gambling Disorder

The exact causes of gambling disorder are not entirely understood, but several factors may contribute, including:

• Biological Factors: Some people may have a genetic predisposition to addictive behaviors.
• Psychological Factors: People with other mental health disorders, such as depression or anxiety, may be more at risk.
• Social Factors: A person’s environment, including exposure to gambling or stress, can increase the risk.

How to Help Someone With a Gambling Addiction

Helping someone with a gambling addiction involves understanding, support and sometimes professional intervention. Here are practical steps you can take:

Encourage open communication

Start by talking to them about your concerns. Approach the topic with empathy and without judgment. Let them know you’re there to support them and that you care about their well-being.

Suggest professional help

Encourage them to seek professional help. A mental health professional can provide a proper diagnosis and discuss treatment options. It’s important to remind them that seeking help is a strength, not a weakness.

Support group involvement

Suggest they join a support group. Support groups like Gamblers Anonymous offer a community of people who understand what they’re going through and can offer guidance and support.

Treatment Options for Gambling Disorder

There are several effective methods of treating gambling disorder. These include:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is one of the most effective treatments for gambling disorder. It involves changing the unhealthy gambling behaviors and thoughts and developing coping skills to deal with urges.

Medication

In some cases, medications such as antidepressants or mood stabilizers can be helpful, particularly if the person also suffers from depression or anxiety.

Self-help strategies

Encourage self-help strategies such as setting limits on gambling, avoiding triggers and engaging in alternative activities that provide a sense of achievement and satisfaction.

Gambling Disorder Support

Supporting someone with gambling disorder can be challenging, but your role can be transformative. Here are some ways you can offer support:

• Educate Yourself: Understanding the disorder can help you provide better support.
• Be Patient: Recovery is a process that takes time.
• Set Boundaries: Protect yourself from negative impacts, such as financial issues, by setting clear boundaries.
• Encourage Healthy Habits: Help them find new hobbies or interests that can replace gambling.

Help For Gambling Addiction

Helping someone with a gambling disorder is not easy, but your support can make a big difference. By recognizing the signs, understanding the disorder and knowing how to encourage treatment, you can help your loved one on the path to recovery. Remember, recovery is a journey, and with patience and persistence, positive change is possible.

If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling disorder, seeking professional help is an important first step.

Sierra Vista Hospital, located in Sacramento, California, is here for your mental and behavioral health needs. We provide inpatient and outpatient psychiatric services to adults and adolescents seeking improved mental well-being. Our individualized treatment plans aim to meet each person’s needs and challenges are met.

Learn more about how we can help by giving us a call at 916-273-4300 or get in contact with us by using this form.