Gambling is an activity in which you stake something of value on the outcome of an uncertain event. The risks involved, as well as the prize, should be carefully considered before engaging in this activity. The following article will give you information on signs and treatment options for gambling addiction. It will also provide you with tips on what to do if you think you have a problem.
Problem gambling
Problem gambling is the compulsive urge to gamble, and it interferes with a person’s life in a variety of ways. The primary signs of problem gambling include preoccupation with gambling, loss of control, and increased risk of financial and emotional damage. The person may also feel guilty about gambling or skip out on friends and family activities. As a result, problem gambling can quickly spiral out of control, causing serious problems in the individual’s life.
To diagnose problem gambling, a person must meet the criteria set forth by the DSM-IV (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders IV), which focuses on the psychological motivations underpinning the behavior. The DSM-IV includes 10 criteria that are relevant to determining whether a person has a problem gambling disorder. The Victorian Gambling Screen, the National Opinion Research Center’s DSM-Screen, and the Canadian Problem Gambling Inventory use the DSM-IV criteria as their main criteria.
Signs of a problem
Although many people don’t realize they have a gambling problem until their problem has already caused a lot of damage, there are signs that you may need to seek help. One of the first signs is a guilty feeling. Gamblers often feel guilty after losing their money. They may also lie about where they are, steal money, and stay up late. If you see these signs, you should speak with your loved ones.
Another sign that someone has a gambling addiction is the inability to stop. Although it may be tempting, gambling addicts find it difficult to cut down or even stop completely. Even if they’ve set strict limits for their gambling, the urge to gamble never seems to end. In addition, they may begin to feel restless and irritable if they’re not gambling.
Treatment options
If you have a problem with gambling, you may want to consider treatment options for gambling addiction. Professionals in mental health and healthcare can provide specialized treatment for the problem. Treatment for gambling addiction can also include counseling for the person and family members. A thorough evaluation is essential, and you should note all of your feelings and triggers. In addition, note any recent changes in your life and any medications that you are taking. You should also list any other types of treatment you may be using.
While there is no FDA-approved treatment for gambling disorder, researchers are currently testing several drugs to address the underlying causes. Some show promise. In randomized clinical trials, medications such as escitalopram, lithium, nalmefene, valproate, and naltrexone showed favorable results in patients with gambling disorders.