What are the signs of gambling addiction? Where is the line between manageable and problematic?
The signs of gambling addiction can fly under the radar, hiding between everyday tasks, and seem harmless in nature. So, where does the line between manageable and problematic reside?
It may be no surprise that the Covid pandemic has affected those prone to gambling or are currently struggling with it. The emerging rise in gambling addiction combined with the changing landscapes of mental health during a global health crisis has led to increased numbers of individuals seeking help.
A recent survey from the National Council on Problem Gambling showed that the risk of problem gambling has doubled since 2018.
Many people think that process addictions such as gambling, eating disorders, sex, shopping, spending, gaming are less severe than substance use disorder. Unlike more visible addictions, problem gambling is relatively easy to hide. It affects people from all walks of life and leaves approximately 2 million Americans annually feeling alone, ashamed and, in many cases, broke.
Gambling mirrors the use of chemical substances, affecting the brain in much the same way that drugs or alcohol do. It gives a similar high by activating the same areas of the brain. It's equally compulsive and just as damaging. Immediate access to gambling through smartphones allows behaviors to cross over to problematic even easier.
The consequences of gambling can severely affect families, careers, and lives. Erratic behavior can manifest in lying, staying out late, even stealing money. Therefore, it is critical to end the shame, remove the stigma, and empower families to seek support.
Here are a few signs that may reveal whether gambling has crossed over to the side of addiction and what you need to do to prevent it from becoming a crippling aspect of life.
DISHONESTY
Lying, manipulation, and accusations can be signs of gambling addiction. An example is asking someone claiming they are working late all the time or lying about their whereabouts. People covering up their location due to gambling should be viewed as a serious concern.
MONEY THAT GOES MISSING
Things that should be considered a red flag for gambling include unexpected or uncharacteristic financial behaviors. If you have noticed money has disappeared from bank accounts, frequent ATM withdrawals, or sudden increases in credit card debt, this may be tied to problem gambling. Also, take note of attempts to take out loans.
DEFLECTION, RATIONALIZING, MINIMIZING
This is a classic response designed to create self-doubt and make the problem seem less severe. When you express concern and your loved one responds with "It's not that big of a deal," "I only do it on Saturdays," "Get off my back," or "I provide for this family," it deflects responsibility and turns everything around on you. Listen to your instincts; most likely, the fear you are feeling is a response to behavioral issues that need to be addressed.
GAMBLING AS AVOIDANCE
For many, gambling functions as a distraction from emotional pain and a way to avoid deep-seeded issues. Like chemical substances, they turn to gambling to cope with grief and loss and avoid dealing with deeper issues. Similarly, a person who socially withdraws from friends and family to spend all their time online may have a gambling problem.
BECOMING OBSESSIVE ABOUT A GAME
Gambling addicts may pay excessive attention to the details of a game or have a disproportionate response to what's happening. For example, while it may be a normal response to be upset when your favorite team loses, it's not normal to throw your phone across the room in anger or get drunk with a loss. In addition, people often become interested in sports they usually wouldn't watch, such as overseas teams or obscure sorts. These explosive reactions or unusual interests are indicative of gambling addiction.
A FAMILY HISTORY OF ADDICTION
An addiction history of any kind within a family can be a risk factor for gambling addiction. For example, someone with an alcoholic parent chooses not to drink. Instead, they play poker every weekend to decompress. Unfortunately, this can become problematic as they have the same genetic predisposition to addiction.
OTHER ADDICTIONS
Often, there is a lot more going on under the surface when it comes to gambling addiction. Those that suffer from gambling addiction struggle with substance use disorders as well. It is critical to address dual diagnosis as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
PROXIMITY TO A CASINO People that live within 30 miles of a casino are more likely to become problem gamblers. It's easier to "drop in" for a quick gambling session without realizing the magnitude of the problem. The legalization of sports betting creates additional challenges by providing easy access to sports betting (whereas bets could only formerly be handled legally in Las Vegas). The newfound social acceptability of gambling increases the potential of relapse triggers for those in recovery from substances or other process addictions.
WHAT YOU CAN DO
If you or a loved one are struggling with problematic gambling, you are not alone. Early intervention is essential– if left unchecked, the consequences can be devastating. Gambling addiction is a chronic disorder that requires a long-term recovery plan. Therefore, I recommend immediate behavioral assessment. Gambling addicts can recover and lead healthy, productive lives with the proper treatment. And just as with substance use disorders, it's crucial for families impacted by a loved one's gambling addiction to participate in treatment and receive therapeutic support.
If you believe a behavioral assessment is necessary, call Parallels Consulting today or fill out the form below to take the first steps toward recovery and healing.
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