Causes of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling is a disorder of impulse control. The compulsion to gamble often leads to depression, suicidal thoughts, and financial ruin. There are several factors that can contribute to the development of this disorder. Understanding these causes is a great first step in reducing or even eliminating gambling. There are many organisations available to help people with gambling issues. Some organisations provide counselling and support to those in the affected family as well. To find out more, please read on.
Problem gambling is an impulse-control disorder
There are numerous different treatments for problem gambling, including counseling, step-based programs, peer-support, and medications. Despite the wide variety of treatments, no single one is considered the most effective. While no medications have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for pathological gambling, the best option is usually a combination of treatments. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that you can’t get help if you are afflicted with problem gambling.
It can lead to depression
If you’ve noticed that you’re losing control over your gambling, it’s time to take action. You may feel like giving in to your urges, so you turn to alcohol or gambling. But alcohol also increases your chances of developing a problem gambling habit. Alcohol decreases your coping resources and makes it harder for you to resist temptation. To avoid an urge to gamble, try to change the way you think. Negative thinking about gambling may lead to more frequent and harmful behaviors.
It can lead to suicidal thoughts
Research has shown that people who engage in problem gambling are more likely to develop suicidal thoughts. In a recent report by GambleAware, the UK’s leading gambling charity, problem gamblers were six times more likely to experience suicidal thoughts than non-gamblers. This elevated risk was evident even after adjusting for other risk factors. Financial problems, substance abuse, and depression were all linked to increased risk of suicide.
It can lead to financial ruin
In recent years, research has shown that a person’s gambling habits can lead to debt. While the debts associated with gambling can be managed by seeking out debt management agencies, it will take time to eliminate all the debts. However, debts associated with gambling are no different to other kinds of debt, and the individual must develop a plan to pay off the creditors. This article looks at the main reasons why gambling can lead to debt.
It can lead to criminal behavior
There is a clear connection between problem gambling and criminal behavior, says sociologist Christopher Dennison of the University at Buffalo. But the assumption that gambling problems directly cause criminal behavior is flawed. He explains that the associations between gambling and crime are not linear, but are rather indicators of deviance in general. Other factors associated with problem gambling include socioeconomic status, prior substance use, and involvement in delinquent peer groups.