The criteria for diagnosing problem gambling are widely used by mental health professionals. Many use the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) published by the American Psychiatric Association. The DSM lists Gambling Disorder along with other addictive behaviors. According to the DSM criteria, a Gambler is diagnosed as having a Gambling Disorder if he or she has repeatedly failed to control their gambling and is likely to experience the following symptoms:
Problem gamblers
There is a huge social spillover from problem gambling. Problem gamblers generate huge family, social, and personal problems. But how many people in Wisconsin suffer from pathological gambling? There is no hard evidence, but it is believed that up to 4 percent of adults in the U.S. are pathological gamblers. But even this number is too low. If it is true, why do so many people still gamble?
Signs
If you are concerned that your loved one may have a gambling problem, it’s important to seek help right away. Gambling addiction can damage a person’s family, career, and life. It is very difficult to detect, but you should know the signs to recognize it. Gambling can mimic other addictions and be accompanied by erratic behavior, such as lying or stealing. This article will give you information on the signs of gambling addiction, and how you can help your loved one stop this dangerous activity.
Gambling addiction often results in depressive symptoms. It’s not uncommon for someone to lose everything in a single evening and feel hopeless. Other symptoms include depression, increased denial, and irritability. Gamblers may even have a disturbed sleeping pattern. Even their skin may become pale, and their weight fluctuates. They might also develop acne and dark circles under their eyes. Signs of gambling addiction include these:
Symptoms
There are many signs and symptoms of gambling addiction. People with mild problems may exhibit four to five of these behaviors. A pathological gambler may exhibit all nine of these symptoms. The severity of gambling addiction varies according to the severity of the other psychiatric disorders a person may have. Pathological gamblers often have other psychiatric disorders such as substance abuse and mood disorders, and they may also be prone to personality disorders.
Behavioral therapy focuses on learning how to reduce the urges to gamble. Over time, the patient will learn to avoid these urges. Cognitive behavioral therapy, on the other hand, targets faulty thoughts and beliefs that contribute to gambling addiction. Correcting these beliefs will reduce the urge to gamble. Behavioral therapy helps reduce the urge to gamble through a combination of different techniques. However, the most effective treatment for gambling addiction is a combination of behavioral and cognitive therapy.
Treatment
In order to determine whether you have a gambling problem, you need to see a mental health professional. Your health and lifestyle are both impacted by your gambling behavior. You may experience negative emotions, such as anxiety, frustration, agitation, and remorse. Despite the negative consequences, most people suffering from gambling addiction want to stop. The physical and mental aspects of gambling addiction are very real and can cause problems with relationships, work performance, and financial stability. Gambling addiction can make you feel restless and bored by other activities.
Treatment for gambling addiction may involve counseling or family therapy. Family therapy and marriage counseling are two options available to help people with gambling problems find coping strategies and overcome family and financial issues. This type of therapy helps problem gamblers focus on other aspects of their lives, while addressing gambling addiction as a symptom. The benefits of counseling and therapy are well-known, but they can be difficult to access, so you should seek the advice of a professional.
